Senate passes SB 170 to strengthen truancy prevention, family diversion and limit secure detention for status offenders

Senate Bill 170, as amended on the floor, passed the Senate after the sponsor described the bill’s focus on early intervention, family engagement and data‑driven evaluation. Senator from Laurel said the measure establishes a truancy prevention pilot in 10 school districts, strengthens diversion by requiring family diversion agreements rather than student‑only agreements, and requires annual reporting by the Kentucky Department of Education so lawmakers can evaluate whether court involvement improves attendance.

The bill also addresses secure detention for status offenses: it prohibits secure detention for children under 14 for status offenses and limits detention for children 14 and older to seven days unless a judge issues written findings that continued detention is necessary for public safety. The sponsor emphasized coordination across education, judicial and child welfare systems and noted Representative Nimitz’s collaboration across chambers.

Floor amendments (three were discussed) were adopted to resolve technical verbiage conflicts and streamline language, and the committee substitute plus the friendly amendments were adopted. After floor consideration the clerk recorded that SB 170 as amended was passed; the transcript includes sponsor remarks about resourcing and the need for adequate funding for community programs referenced in the bill.

Senators who spoke in favor highlighted coordination and data collection; some asked about funding and data systems to share information among schools, courts and service providers. The bill passed on the floor and will proceed within the legislative process.