Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes standardized alternatives to incarceration for minors convicted of their first or second non-violent offense in Pennsylvania.

Highlights:

• Authorizes an offer to a child convicted of a non-violent offense for an opportunity to complete an informal adjustment or other diversion program if (Sec. 2): 

• The child has fewer than three prior informal adjustments or preposition diversion in the past three years; 

• The child is referred for any offense except those enumerated or relating to murder; and

• The child and the child’s parents, guardian or other custodian provide informed consent, with knowledge that consent is not obligatory.

• Prohibits informal adjustments or other diversion programs from involving monetary obligations other than restitution (Sec. 2). 

• Requires the district attorney or juvenile probation office to notify the victim of the alleged offense prior to accepting a juvenile into a diversion program (Sec. 2). 

• Specifies that this Act takes effect 60 days after passage (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text