Michigan Launches Task Force For Juvenile Justice Reform

LANSING, MI — Juvenile justice reform is coming to Michigan, and a newly formed task force will lead the way.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the formation Wednesday of a Task Force on Juvenile Justice Reform, which the governor said is the first of its kind in the state. Whitmer said the task force will focus on analyzing the state's juvenile justice system while recommending practices and strategies for reform.

“Michigan is a national leader in criminal justice reform, and today we continue towards implementing real changes that will help young Michiganders when they are exposed to our criminal justice system,” Whitmer said in a statement. “We believe that we must reduce people’s contact with the system in the first place, but when they do come into contact, we must especially treat our youngest Michiganders with dignity, humanity, and respect. One mistake early on in a child’s life should not destroy their opportunities for a positive future.”

The task force will partner with county and state leaders, as well as other leaders involved in the juvenile justice system, officials said. The Task Force's goal will be to develop an analysis of the state's juvenile justice system, complete with recommendations for changes in state law, policy, and appropriations.

The Council of State Governments Justice Center will perform the review, which will examine the system from diversion through reentry. The national, nonpartisan organization, known for developing research-driven public safety strategies, will share its findings with the [commission] and identify approaches to enhance the state’s juvenile justice system.