A Resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and issue a report on the best practices and recommendations for the operation of juvenile detention centers within this Commonwealth.
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission to study and recommend best practices for operating juvenile detention centers in Pennsylvania. The study will be prompted by a recent grand jury investigation that revealed serious issues at a juvenile detention center, including abuse, neglect, and inadequate programming. The resolution seeks to improve the operation of these facilities by focusing on areas such as video surveillance, staff training, staffing levels, and support for juveniles and staff.
Key provisions
- Implement total video surveillance with a 90-day storage requirement and supervisor review of restraint footage.
- Expand staff training to include de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed care, and juvenile rights.
- Require in-person training with opportunities for staff to practice techniques.
- Increase minimum qualifications for management and staff, potentially raising the minimum age.
- Incentivize employment for individuals with relevant lived experience and multidisciplinary backgrounds.
- Restrict overtime hours to mitigate potential negative impacts on staffing and harmful practices.
- Review options for ensuring a living wage to attract and retain qualified staff.
- Add programming requirements, including age-appropriate educational activities and support for juveniles outside the facility.
Who is affected
- Juveniles in detention centers
Bill text
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Document of record
- Version
- Pn 1109 Html
- Published
- Not published in the source record
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
9 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Benjamin Sanchez
Danielle Friel Otten
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