Scored 9/10 on whether it helps or hurts everyday people.
The Justice System Bill
South Carolina bill gives kids more rights in justice system
S.C. Juvenile Justice Reform Act
Good for everyday people ·
This bill would give children more rights in court, help them get treatment instead of jail, and make the justice system fairer for young people.
Our take
What we think, in plain words.
This bill is a big step forward for children in South Carolina who get into trouble. It would make sure kids have a lawyer when police question them and stop the use of solitary confinement. Instead of sending kids to jail, the bill wants to help them with programs in their community for school, mental health, and other needs. It would also make it easier for kids to get their records cleared later on. Some people might worry about how this affects public safety, but the bill focuses on helping kids change for the better while still addressing serious crimes. This bill is still new, so now is the time to tell your lawmakers what you think about giving kids a better chance.
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The facts
What the bill actually says, no spin.
- It would create a "Children's Bill of Rights" for kids in the justice system.
- It would require lawyers for children 15 or younger before police questioning, with some exceptions.
- It would ban solitary confinement for children and limit other room restrictions.
- It would create programs to help kids stay out of jail and get community support.
- It would limit fees for diversion programs and restitution amounts for children to $500.
- It would raise the age for some court cases to include 17-year-olds in juvenile court.
- It would remove "loitering in a billiard room" as a reason for juvenile court involvement.
- It would require school districts to help students transferring due to homelessness or justice system involvement.
- It would allow for records of status offenses to be erased when a person turns 18.
In the news
Scanning the news for this bill…
Headlines gathered from across the news, starting points to explore, not endorsements. Always read the official text before acting.
Sources
Read it yourself: the official bill and records.
This bill is in the South Carolina Bill Book 2026
The best and worst South Carolina bills of 2026, one page each — our take on the left, the bill on the right, and room for your notes. No email needed.
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