Juvenile Hearing Board (JHB) Reform
The Juvenile Hearing Board (JHB) is Providence’s community-based alternative to Family Court. The JHB provides eligible young people the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and give back to their community. Right now, referral to the JHB is entirely discretionary. These amendments, introduced April 2, 2026, would make referral to the JHB automatic for eligible youth.
ORDINANCE INFORMATION
PUBLIC COMMENT
The Special Committee on HOPE will be holding a meeting on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers (City Hall 3rd Floor) on the amendments to expand alternatives to the criminal justice system for Providence youth.
We want to hear your perspective! Join us on June 9th or submit written testimony to cityclerk@providenceri.gov.
LEAD SPONSORS
FROM THE SPONSORS
Instead of sending a child into the criminal justice system, the JHB offers restorative pathways.
The Juvenile Hearing Board is Providence’s community-based alternative to Family Court. The JHB provides eligible young people the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and give back to their community.
Right now, referral to the JHB is entirely discretionary.
When an eligible young person is arrested for a nonviolent offense, referral to the JHB is entirely discretionary—it’s up to the detective on duty. That means a young person’s future may depend on who happens to be working. Access to the diversionary program is not clear, consistent, or guaranteed. Many young people are unaware it’s even a possibility.
These amendments would make referral to the JHB automatic for eligible youth.
Eligibility applies to first or second nonviolent offenses, in most cases. This would create a clearer, fairer path for more young people to experience community-based accountability.
Kids should have the chance to learn from mistakes without being pushed unnecessarily into the court system, according to sponsors.
Support and accountability should come before punishment.
– Sponsors Majority Whip Miguel A. Sanchez, Council President Rachel M. Miller, Councilor Jill S. Davidson, Councilwoman Shelley T. Peterson
