Senate Bill 439 went into effect on Jan. 1, ending the prosecution of children under 12 in juvenile court; but counties have until Jan. 1, 2020 to develop an implementation plan that actualizes this vision.

CDF-CA is supporting the implementation process at the state and county levels. At the state level, we are working with partners to create an implementation guide that will help county officials create their plans. We will also be providing individualized support to those that require it. At the county level, we have already supported the creation and distribution of a temporary implementation guide. Currently we are collaborating to create a permanent guide and planning several convenings to engage and educate the community on this policy change.