Juvenile Code Rewrite Status Update

It is with great disappointment that we convey this news: HB 641 – the Child Protection and Public Safety Act or the Juvenile Code Rewrite – did not move through the Senate and will not become law this year.

According to legislative rules, the bill needed to pass out of the Senate Rules Committee by the close of Monday’s legislative day in order to be put before the Senate for a vote. That did not happen, effectively stopping the progress of HB 641 for this year.  

Why did this happen? The bill ran into unforeseen obstacles with the funding priorities of Governor Deal, who was faced with hard decisions in light of the state’s fiscal situation and the considerable differences in cost estimates of HB 641.

Now what? Voices and JUSTGeorgia – a diverse coalition of individuals and organizations – will continue to work diligently with the Governor, his staff, and leaders in the House and Senate to identify costs for these much-needed juvenile justice reforms. These reforms will strengthen public safety and help children become healthy, productive adults.

You can help us now by contacting the Governor (404-656-1776 or EMAIL), your Senator and your Representative (find contact info here) and telling them:

I am disappointed that HB 641 did not become law this year. Because these juvenile justice reforms will help children, families and communities across Georgia, I hope you will make the Juvenile Code Rewrite a priority during the 2013 legislative session. Thank you. 

We thank you for your partnership and support and will continue to keep you updated on this situation.