The California State Senate's Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee No. 3 on Health and Human Services convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding funding for youth services and the juvenile justice system. A significant focus of the meeting was the proposed funding formula for counties, which has raised concerns among lawmakers regarding its implications for youth rehabilitation and accountability.

One of the primary points of contention was the automatic allocation of funds to facilities that have been directed to shut down. Lawmakers expressed frustration over the lack of accountability in the funding process, questioning the rationale behind providing financial support to facilities deemed unsuitable for youth confinement. This situation has led to concerns about public trust in government and the effectiveness of the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC).

Senators highlighted the need for a more transparent tracking system for funding, emphasizing that counties should not be allowed to sit on large sums of money without demonstrating effective use for youth services. The discussion revealed that some counties, such as Los Angeles, have significant unspent funds, raising questions about their commitment to addressing the needs of justice-impacted youth.

The subcommittee also examined the proposed formula's impact on probation departments, with concerns that reduced funding could lead to inadequate services for youth offenders. Lawmakers argued that the formula should incentivize both judges and probation officers to work collaboratively in rehabilitating youth, rather than allowing one group to dominate the process.

Additionally, the meeting underscored the importance of using current data to inform funding decisions. Senators criticized the reliance on outdated statistics from 2018, advocating for the incorporation of more recent data to accurately reflect the needs of youth in the system.

As the subcommittee prepares for the May budget revision, there is a clear call for reforms that ensure accountability, effective use of funds, and a focus on the rehabilitation of youth. Lawmakers expressed hope that the proposed changes would lead to systemic improvements in the juvenile justice system, ultimately benefiting both the youth involved and the communities they return to.