House Bill 3186 mandates the creation of a diversion program for at-risk youth charged with Class C misdemeanors, such as possession of alcohol or theft of something worth less than $100, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.
The bill mandates counties and municipalities to create a youth diversion program effective January 2025, according to agenda documents.
Breaking down the bill
The bipartisan legislation, known as the Texas Youth Diversion and Early Intervention Act, allows judges to send minors to a new intervention program instead of fining them. Children will be eligible for diversion programs once a year but may not enter a program if they already unsuccessfully participated. A child and their parent must provide written consent to participate in the programs, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.
The details
Hays County is responsible for employing one full-time Juvenile Diversion Coordinator—which was budgeted for during the annual budget process, according to the agreement. Buda and Kyle will provide funding to help offset operating costs.
The agreement will last until Sept. 30 and will automatically renew annually each Oct. 1 unless terminated, according to the agreement.
