Accomplishments

Justice for Kids and Communities Legislative Package

Developed in partnership with state, local, and national partners, the Justice for Kids and Communities legislation was signed into law in December 2023. These reforms eliminated court-imposed fines and fees, strengthened oversight of child welfare and protection, and placed more focus on diversion and community-based responses.

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Debt Free Justice

As part of the Justice for Kids and Communities legislation, Michigan eliminated the majority of fines and fees for juveniles, all except those related to restitution and the Crime Victims Fund. You can read our report assessing the impact of this change for more information.

 

Residential Placement Reform 

In partnership with Mich. Dept. of Health and Human Services, improved policies and procedures pertaining to youth safety in residential facilities.

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Passage of Clean Slate for Kids Legislation

Passed in 2021, this legislation allowed for youth records to be sealed from public view and provided a way for kids to have their records erased.​

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Passage of Raise the Age Legislation

Our efforts to pass this were done in partnership with the Raise the Age coalition and funded by the Public Welfare Foundation. The legislation, passed in 2019, raised the age of who is considered an adult in the justice system from 17 to 18 years old.

 

Advancing Justice for Youth with Diverse SOGIE in Wayne County

In 2018, MCYJ, the McGregor Fund and the Ruth Ellis Center collaborated to host listening sessions with youth with diverse SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression) and used that input to train staff and amend policies in residential facilities to be more affirming. The project improved staff cultural competency, reduced placements in facilities, and increased referrals for behavioral health services.

 

In-Home Community Care Grant

In partnership with Mich. Dept. of Health and Human Services

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Michigan Juvenile Justice Continuum of Care Initiative

In partnership with Mich. Dept. of Health and Human Services