Bill > SB0024

This bill amends the Juvenile Diversion Act to allow for more flexible research use of juvenile justice records while maintaining strict privacy protections. Previously, records from juvenile diversion programs could only be used to make decisions about diverting a minor. Now, researchers can submit requests to the State Court Administrative Office or individual courts to access these records, but only through a carefully negotiated data use agreement that ensures personally identifiable information remains confidential. The bill defines a "data use agreement" as a document outlining technical standards to protect information integrity and prevent public disclosure. Such agreements must include provisions to prevent unauthorized disclosure, and the state court administrative office may charge researchers to cover processing costs. The records released under these agreements are exempt from Freedom of Information Act disclosure. The bill requires courts to maintain records of all research requests, including those received, granted, and the data released. Violating the confidentiality provisions remains a misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The amendments aim to balance research needs with protecting juvenile privacy, with the changes set to take effect on October 1, 2025.