Kansas Advisory Group on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention

About the Kansas Advisory Group Ward Loyd, Chair Erika Nilles-Plumlee, Vice Chair

The Kansas Advisory Group on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention was established by the Governor in accordance with K.S.A. 75-7007 and as directed by Section 223(a) (3) of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act ( JJDPA), to determine, advocate for, and promote the best interests of juveniles in Kansas. Reflecting its purpose, the Kansas Advisory Group reviews juvenile justice policy, advises policymakers on issues effecting the juvenile justice system; and strives to keep Kansas in compliance with the federal JJDPA act. The Kansas Advisory Group seeks to:

• Improve and monitor the state juvenile justice system;
• Prevent juvenile delinquency and strengthen communities and families;
• Support juvenile justice improvements and reform through policy development and funding recommendations and monitoring;
• Advocate for the full implementation of the federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act;
• Develop and implement the JJDPA Three Year State Plan, and
• Advise policymakers on matters concerning the juvenile justice system and related youth issues.

The advisory group participates in the development and review of the Title II Formula three year plan and annual updates, review and make recommendations concerning all federal juvenile justice and delinquency prevention grant applications and the Kansas Juvenile Delinquency Prevention Trust Fund grant applications, and oversee compliance with the Federal JJDPA Core Requirements.

Role of the State Advisory Group

The Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (JJDP) Act forges a dynamic relationship between the federal government and committed volunteer citizens from the states. In order to enhance influence and commitment, the Act mandates gubernatorial appointments to the State Advisory Group. Drawing from a broad range of expertise and community leaders in the juvenile justice field, the State Advisory Group offers vital citizen input into the development of federal and state policy and juvenile justice related programming. The KAG fulfills the federally required responsibilities of the State Advisory Group.

Kansas Advisory Group Members