This bill would establish a federal grant program to help states provide mental health and diversion services to at-risk youth and those involved in the juvenile justice system. States would be eligible to receive grants only if they eliminate fees and fines imposed on juveniles and their families for court costs, probation supervision, detention, and other justice system expenses, effectively preventing what the bill calls a "debtor's prison for kids." The bill authorizes $500 million annually from 2023 through 2027 for participating states to use these grants for evidence-based mental health services and programs designed to keep young people out of the criminal justice system. Additionally, the legislation requires an independent research organization to conduct a national study on fines and fees in the criminal justice system, with $2 million authorized for that report due within 18 months of enactment.
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