The Juvenile Justice Task Force Recommendations found Michigan has no centralized structure and minimal standards, supports, or resources for juvenile public defense statewide. The absence of statewide funding has led to uneven access for youth to trained and qualified defenders. Local systems appoint counsel at different stages, which can negatively affect the outcome of a youth’s case. Research has consistently shown that their constitutional rights may not be sufficiently protected without adequate defense.

Creating Juvenile Defense Standards

About the Bills:

Representative Sarah Lightner (R - Springport) introduced House Bill 4070 , which requires alignment of current and the development of new standards with specific considerations for youth representation in the juvenile justice system. This includes requirements for specialized training for youth counsel. This legislation also adds a member with youth expertise to the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission.

Amends titles & secs. 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 21, & 23 of 2013 PA 93 (MCL 780.983 et seq.).

The legislation has also been introduced in the Michigan State Senate by Senator Sue Shink

(D-Northfield Township). Senate Bill 81 passed the Senate with bipartisan support on March 18, 2025, and has since been referred to the Committee on Judiciary. Senate Bill 81 is the companion bill to House Bill 4070, meaning the language is identical.

Want to learn more about the bill?

Click here to download our informative PDF.

Background:

In 2023, the Justice for Kids and Communities legislative package was developed due to the Task Force’s recommendations and assessment of Michigan’s juvenile justice system. House Bill 4630 was a key component of this package, but did not advance out of the Michigan State Senate.