Mississippi directs $1.5 million toward youth diversion services

The Department of Human Services would use $1.5 million to establish and run a pilot Adolescent Opportunity Program. The pilot would serve adolescents through community-based diversion and intervention services. The program aims to reduce repeat offending among adolescents. The department must create a written pilot plan and sign a grant or subgrant agreement before spending or distributing the funds. The funds are for fiscal year 2027, and the act takes effect after passage.

The department would choose program awardees based on need, service gaps, court referrals, and their ability to provide structured community services. The rules apply to grants or subgrants supporting the youth diversion program. Recipients must provide at least quarterly reports on performance and spending. The department may require matching support, donated participation, or commitments from local partners before making an award. These requirements apply when the department awards and oversees program funds after the act takes effect.