summary
Introduced
01/27/2026
01/27/2026
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Article 5 of Chapter 11 of Title 15 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to child in need of services, so as to provide for funding for the child in need of services (CHINS) program, subject to appropriations; to provide for legislative findings and intent; to provide for definitions; to designate the Department of Education as the oversight agency for the fund; to establish a CHINS Support Fund and regional coordination system; to provide for the allocation of resources for services and supports; to provide for rules, regulations, and procedures; to provide for implementation; to provide for a short title; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill, titled the "Children in Need of Services (CHINS) Funding Act," establishes a dedicated funding mechanism and oversight structure for the CHINS program in Georgia, aiming to provide interventions for youth who commit status offenses (actions that would be illegal for adults but are not, like truancy or running away) without involving the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). The Department of Education (DOE) is designated as the oversight agency and will coordinate with the Council of Juvenile Court Judges and regional educational service agencies (RESAs) to implement the program statewide. A "CHINS Support Fund" will be created, and subject to legislative appropriations, it will provide grants for school-based and community-based service providers offering wraparound supports such as mental health treatment and family strengthening, as well as for residential placement providers and housing support for young adults transitioning out of DJJ supervision. The bill also establishes a statewide CHINS coordinator position and a coordinator within each of the 16 RESA regions, with fund allocations prioritizing counties with higher poverty rates and considering factors like complaint data, child poverty, population, and service needs. The DOE will be required to submit an annual report on the fund's finances and activities to state leadership.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
House Second Readers (on 01/29/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72355 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/240191 |
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