Eliminating Debtor’s Prison for Kids Act of 2021

The Eliminating Debtor’s Prison for Kids Act of 2021 proposes a federal grant program to help states provide mental and behavioral health services to at-risk youth and those in juvenile detention. To qualify for these funds, states would be required to prohibit courts and agencies from charging administrative fees to juvenile offenders or their parents for things like court costs, public defenders, or room and board. The bill aims to reduce the financial burden on low-income families and ensure that a child’s involvement in the justice system does not lead to long-term household debt.