The Overview

If you've ever wondered whether programs that keep kids out of court actually work, Michigan just opened the door for researchers to find out more. A Michigan law that took effect July 24, 2026, lets researchers access juvenile diversion records under a data-use agreement. Michigan's HB 4396, a bill allowing certain information sharing for research purposes in juvenile justice cases, became law when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) signed it July 21, 2026. ​

What the Law Does

The law amends the 1988 Juvenile Diversion Act to create a research-access pathway for records that courts keep on diverted minors.

Researchers and organizations can submit requests to the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) or an individual court, and if a request is granted, SCAO must create a data-use agreement that protects personally identifiable information. SCAO must create a data use agreement that protects personally identifiable information and may charge the researcher for processing costs, and both SCAO and individual courts must keep records of requests received and granted and of the data released.

Risk and mental health screening results, and anything a minor says during screening or while participating in a diversion program, cannot be used as evidence in any hearing or subpoenaed for any other purpose. That protection applies regardless of whether a research request is made. Using diversion records for any purpose other than making a diversion decision remains a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

Legislative Status

Rep. Sarah Lightner (R) sponsored the bill. The House passed it June 25, 2025, 103 to 3. The Senate passed it July 3, 2026, 29 to 7.

Gov. Whitmer said in a release: "Modifying the Juvenile Diversion Act through the signing of HB 4396 will empower researchers to assess juvenile diversion programs and provide youth with the best treatment possible." WZZM 13 and Upper Michigan's Source both covered the signing, describing the law as allowing certain anonymized juvenile-justice case information to be shared for research.

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