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Here is what House Bill 3186 will do for youth diversion programs once it goes into effect in 2024

FILE - The U.S. and Texas state flags fly outside the state Capitol building on July 12, 2021 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Sergio Flores/Getty Images) (Sergio Flores, 2021 Getty Images) (getty)

HOUSTONHouse Bill 3186, the legislation is known as the Texas Youth Diversion and Early Intervention Act, will go into effect on Jan. 1. This law would allow judges to decide earlier on in the judicial process if a teenager should be part of a youth diversion program.

Lawmakers are trying to address the mental health issues youth are facing.

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The legislation allows for judges to wave youth’s penalties for Class C misdemeanors and enroll them in an intervention program.

Different cities would decide what that program would look like. It could include rehabilitation services, job training, programs, or alcohol and drug awareness programs.

“Currently, municipal and justice courts can only order diversion strategies after a case has resulted in a conviction or deferral of disposition. H.B. 3186 makes these strategies available at the front end of a case where they can be more effective,” the bill states.

In Harris County, teens who are selected by the District Attorney’s Office or Juvenile Probation Office can be sent to the Harris Center’s Youth Diversion Center. IT offers temporary housing, family counseling, and rehabilitation services.


About the Author

Cynthia Miranda graduated from UT Austin and is a proud Houstonian. She is passionate about covering breaking news and community stories. Cynthia previously covered elections, the historic 2021 Texas winter storm, and other news in East Texas. In addition to writing, she also loves going to concerts, watching movies, and cooking with her family.

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