ATLANTA (March 1, 2012) – Sen. Bill Hamrick (R-Carrollton) is continuing his work to reform Georgia’s juvenile code by sponsoring SB 127, also known as the Child Protection and Public Safety Act. The Act is known as HB 641 in the House of Representatives and calls for substantial changes in the state’s juvenile court proceedings. One of the most important components of the bill calls for well-defined articles outlining the child’s rights to procedural due process, family preservation, proper representation and available services; all dependent on the specific reason for juvenile court intervention.
“Our state needs to focus on moving children out of the juvenile court system permanently,” said Sen. Hamrick. “Georgia’s outdated juvenile code needs to be modernized. Without these revisions, our state cannot correctly identify the proper rehabilitative measures that will get juveniles out of the system for good.”
On February 29, the House of Representatives passed HB 641 with a vote of 172 – 0. HB 641 is sponsored by Rep. Wendell Willard (R-Sandy Springs), another longtime advocate for the reform of Georgia’s juvenile code.
“I am pleased that the House has shown overwhelming support for HB 641, and I hope the bill will garner the same reception in the Senate,” said Sen. Hamrick.
SB 127 passed the Judiciary committee on February 16.
Under existing Georgia code, provisions dealing with abuse and neglect are combined with those relating to delinquency and criminal action. The Child Protection and Public Safety Act clarifies definitions and divides provisions into twelve clearly delineated articles. This bill will create a more efficient system for the rehabilitation and counseling of both youth and families.
“We are failing thousands of Georgia youth by perpetuating their existence in a broken system. Their experience in the juvenile courts needs to be a teachable moment, because there is a future outside of the courts system. With the proper rehabilitation, there is no reason as to why these children cannot become successful and happy adults,” said Sen. Hamrick.
RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
March 1, 2012
For Information Contact:
Natalie Dale, Director
Jennifer Yarber
jennifer.yarber@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028