Shusterman passes two Juvenile Justice bills in state House
Rep. Melissa Shusterman July 10, 2025 | 9:18 AM
HARRISBURG, July 10 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, announced today that two pieces of her legislation, H.B. 1576 and H.B. 1577, have passed the state House of Representatives.
In 2021, the Pennsylvania Juvenile Justice Task Force issued its final report and recommendations to the legislature. The task force process included 28 round tables and nearly 450 participants over a two-year period. The report recommended 35 items for the legislature to act upon that would protect children in the state.
House Bill 1576 would require the PA Department of Human Services to reimburse counties for 50% of certain costs of services provided to delinquent children including, but not limited to, medical treatments, transportation, and the appointment of a guardian ad litem or counsel – also known as indigent defense. House Bill 1577 would ensure that safe and humane institutional practices are in place for children who may face restrictive procedures, such as restraints, when in custody or incarcerated.
“Our children – all of our children - are our future. And that absolutely includes the children who go through our juvenile detention system,” said Shusterman. “As legislators, we are responsible for ensuring the support, development, and safety of young people who are placed in the custody of the Commonwealth. We must invest in these children to ensure they are equipped to have successful futures -- where they will participate in our economy and contribute meaningfully in their communities.”
The bills now move to the state Senate for consideration.