ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moorehas announced the inaugural meeting of the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging Best Practices in Annapolis. The commission, tasked with reviewing Maryland’s juvenile services, facilities, and programs, will convene for the first time on November 6th, with Judge Andre M. Davis presiding as chair.

Judge Davis, whose nearly 50-year career spans roles in the U.S. Department of Justice, the University of Maryland School of Law, and the Baltimore City Solicitor’s Office, brings a wealth of experience to the position.

“I am honored to be asked to lead this important effort,” said Judge Davis. “We will focus our efforts on improving public safety and the lives of justice-involved youth by putting forth proposals that are based on evidence and are aligned with the prevailing research on adolescent neurodevelopment.”

Established through legislation (HB814) signed by Governor Moore in May, the commission reflects the administration’s commitment to both accountability and rehabilitation for young people in the justice system.

“This administration is committed to ensuring accountability both for young people who break the law and those responsible for their rehabilitation,” said Governor Moore. “In partnership with the General Assembly, we will continue to prioritize public safety and provide our children with the supports they need to get their lives on track.”

The commission’s responsibilities include reviewing diversion programs for youth, analyzing the treatment of females in the juvenile justice system, and examining the use of child-in-need-of-supervision petitions. The commission will also investigate wait times for child placement in facilities and the number of petitions authorized or denied by jurisdiction.

Composed of 26 members, the commission includes appointees from Governor Moore, Maryland Senate President Ferguson, and Maryland House Speaker Jones, along with representation from justice-involved youth. Members of the Commission on Juvenile Justice and Emerging Best Practices include those listed above.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

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