The Senate Judiciary Committee heard HB 1403 on juvenile justice matters sponsored by Sen. Crider. Author Rep. McNamara gave background on the bill noting that Youth Justice Oversight Committee (YJOC) was created in 2022 to address juvenile justice reform. The bill at that time required formation of committees, development of reports, and pilot programs. With the completion of those duties, HB 1403 alters the responsibilities and focus of YJOC. YJOC will now offer support and expertise to counties in removing obstacles to obtaining grants.
In addition, the bill requires the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute to consider the recommendations of the YJOC in awarding grants. It also adopts a funding formula for the juvenile diversion grant program, juvenile community alternatives grant program, and juvenile behavioral health competitive grant program.
The bill was amended by consent to permit funding to be awarded for certain programs until July 1, 2027, instead of July 1, 2025 . The Commission on Improving the Status of Children testified in support of the bill. The amended bill passed 10-0 and was reassigned to the Appropriations Committee.
Read the bill at: https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1403/