Creates a process for applying for grant funds to support baby courts in two superior courts that serve both rural and urban populations by January 1, 2021 through the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) Family and Juvenile Court Improvement Grant Program (grant program).
Defines “baby court” as a therapeutic court that provides an intensive court process for families with a child under age three who has been found dependent. Establishes what a baby court must include.
Requires AOC to collect outcome data on baby courts, and submit an annual report to the fiscal committees of the Legislature beginning December 1, 2021. Language is included stating that the grant funds are intended to supplement and not supplant other funds.
Amendments:
2nd substitute:
Date changed from January 2020 to January 2021
Maintains the definition of “baby court.”
Establishes the duties of a baby court.
Date of AOC report moved from December 2021 to December 2022.
Gives priority for baby court implementation grants to courts that will commit additional funding. Clarifies that grant funds cannot supplant existing funds for baby courts.
