PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: Nov. 7, 2023
Contact: Alisa Bousa, Public Information Officer
Alisa.Bousa@ujs.state.sd.us | 605.773.2031
Barriers for Emerging Adults Task Force Issues Final Report
PIERRE, S.D.— The Barriers for Emerging Adults Task Force created by HB 1063 during the 2023 South Dakota Legislative Session has issued its Final Report and Recommendations to the Governor, Chief Justice and South Dakota Legislature.
The Task Force is making five recommendations in the final report that pertain to implementing effective processes and supports for emerging adults, those age 18 to 25, within the justice system:
- Revise current statutes related to the use of evidence-based practices, to allow flexibility of funding a range of community-based and culturally responsive services.
- Enact funding mechanism to support diversion processes and emerging adult diversion programs for nonviolent and low-risk offenders to reduce collateral consequences associated with involvement in the justice system.
- Prioritize training for all court and community partners on developmental and social differences for emerging adults and best practices for supporting this age group.
- Support cognitive behavior treatment and skill-building for emerging adults through dedicated funding streams.
- Consider practice changes across the justice system.
“Recognizing that young adults have great potential for rehabilitation, our suggestions primarily revolve around two aspects: enhancing supervision practices and establishing policies for diversion programs tailored to individuals aged 18 to 25,” according to the Barriers for Emerging Adults Task Force Final Report and Recommendations. “This report offers actionable recommendations and examples of diversion programs and supervision practices that can be replicated.”
The final report can be viewed at https://bit.ly/47niOQ0. For more information, contact Alisa Bousa, Unified Judicial System public information officer, at 605-773-2031 or alisa.bousa@ujs.state.sd.us.
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About South Dakota Courts: The Unified Judicial System (UJS) consists of the Supreme Court, Circuit Courts and State Court Administrator’s Office. The Supreme Court is the state’s highest court and final decision maker on South Dakota law. The Circuit Courts are the state’s trial courts where criminal proceedings and civil litigation are handled. The State Court Administrator’s Office provides centralized administrative assistance and support services for the South Dakota judiciary. Learn more at https://ujs.sd.gov.