Subcommittee approves juvenile-justice bill to recognize juvenile officers and align DJJ with criminal-justice standards
Loading...
Summary
HB 1153, which expands the statutory definitions of juvenile probation and detention officers, recognizes the Department of Juvenile Justice as a criminal-justice employing agency, and adopts training and benefit eligibility changes, was reported favorably 14–0 after a technical amendment was adopted.
The subcommittee voted unanimously to report HB 1153 favorably after adopting a technical amendment clarifying definitions of juvenile probation officers and juvenile detention officers.
Representative Cobb, who presented the bill, said HB 1153 amends the definition of 'officer' to include JPOs and JDOs; establishes statutory definitions for both; recognizes the Department of Juvenile Justice as a criminal-justice employing agency to create a pathway toward Criminal Justice Standards & Training Commission membership and consistent statewide training standards; extends eligibility for certain awards and line-of-duty death benefits; and authorizes DJJ, consistent with legislative intent, to shelter unmarried minors in specified circumstances similar to Department of Children and Families (DCF) practice.
Representative Cobb explained a technical amendment (bar code 446455) to ensure certified managerial and supervisory staff are included in the definitions of JPOs and JDOs. The amendment drew no further debate and was adopted by voice vote. Public testimony in support was recorded as Barney Bishop (Smart Justice Alliance) and Chris Claben (Florida Department of Juvenile Justice) waving in support.
Miss Rosa called the roll on the bill as amended; the committee recorded 14 yeas and 0 nays, and the chair announced HB 1153 as amended would be reported favorably.
