LEGISLATION COMMITTEE
Meeting Date: October 7, 2026
Subject: Improving Outcomes for Justice-Involved Youth
Submitted For: Legislation Committee
Presenter: Esa Ehmen Krause, Chief Probation Officer
Contact: E. Struthers, 925-655-2045
Referral History:
Following the 2023 Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) realignment, justice-involved youth became the responsibility of local governments. While this offers opportunities for community support and rehabilitation, the state has not created a framework to ensure that positive outcomes are achieved for youth. Of particular concern, there were no standards or regulations for least restrictive program (LRP) facilities, basics needs from background checks, treatment standards, safety issues, or administrative requirements are all unaddressed, created a hap-hazard approach that falls short for youth throughout the state.
Locally, this issue creates concerns and jeopardizes the safety and outcomes of youth in these placements. There is a need to develop better guardrails to ensure better outcomes for DJJ youth. The most recent effort was SB 1157 (Archuleta), which was held in Appropriations in its second house due to its perceived cost.
However, this issue continues to persist and risks continue to grow. It is imperative to work towards solutions to ensure safety and improved outcomes for justice-involved youth.
Referral Update:
Presenters will provide key policy context and information on the DJJ realignment, including the current concerns related to unregulated LRP facilities, and discuss potential solutions to help improve outcomes for justice-involved youth.
Invited panelists include:
• Esa Ehmen Krause, Contra Costa County Chief Probation Officer
• Dean Farrah, Solano County Chief Probation Officer
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
RECEIVE and DISCUSS informational updates on Juvenile Justice and opportunities to improve outcomes for justice-involved youth.
Fiscal Impact (if any):
None. Informational item only.