An Act To Establish A Comprehensive Program To Divert Youth From The Criminal Justice System And Address Their Needs

LD 740 creates a new program allowing Maine law enforcement to refer youth (under 18) to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for a needs assessment *before* filing a court petition or making an arrest, instead of proceeding through the criminal justice system. This applies to youth who may have committed minor offenses, with the program requiring consent from both the youth and their parents/guardians. If consent is given, the youth is referred to DHHS for a strengths-based assessment using evidence-based tools, and statements made during this referral process cannot later be used against them in court. The law aims to address underlying needs (like mental health or family issues) rather than punish, while preserving the option for arrest if consent is denied or if immediate safety is a concern.