AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 31 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE YOUTH SERVICES COMMISSION OF DELAWARE.

This Act, which takes effect on January 1, 2022, clarifies that the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF) has exclusive jurisdiction over a juvenile's care, custody, and control for any juvenile until at least the juvenile’s 18th birthday. Further, this Act stipulates that juveniles found guilty and sentenced for a Superior Court offense shall remain in the custody, care, and control of DSCYF until they turn 18. Juveniles with Superior Court terms of confinement which extend beyond their 18th birthday shall be transferred to the custody of the Department of Correction for the remainder of their sentence after they turn 18. This Act also clarifies that Family Court is permitted to retain jurisdiction in some cases, and Family Court may require DSCYF to provide services and supervision for non-incarcerated persons aged 18-21. Finally, the Act allows individuals charged in Family Court before they turn 18 to be held by DSCYF until they turn 19.