New Classification: The legislation introduces a category called “Children in Need of Heightened Supervision”.

Placement Authority: Foster children assigned this status due to violent behavior—or the threat of violent behavior—could be sent to the state’s most secure facilities, which typically feature barbed wire and locking cells.

No Charges Required: The bill specifies that this designation can be applied even if no petition for a delinquent act has been filed and the child has not been formally adjudicated in court.

Indefinite Holding: For juveniles accused of assaulting a staff member at a residential placement, the bill would create an exception allowing them to be held for an indefinite period, bypassing current laws that generally require release after six months.

Proponents (DCS & Governor’s Office): Argue the bill is necessary for safety and accountability. DCS officials state they are receiving “dependent and neglected” children whose violent behaviors are difficult to manage in traditional foster homes or office settings.

Critics (Advocates & Legal Experts): Warn it creates a “shadow juvenile justice system” lacking standard legal protections. Critics also suggest it may be an attempt to resolve the issue of foster children sleeping in state offices by moving them to jails instead.