“The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which represents 60,000 pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and surgical specialists, praises the United States Senate Judiciary Committee for its vote today to pass the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Reauthorization Act of 2009 (S 678). AAP commends the Committee for working to improve the lives of children who come into contact with the juvenile justice system by passing this important piece of legislation.

“The AAP endorses this bill, and is particularly pleased that it will strengthen a number of protections offered in the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA), such as reducing the disproportionate number of minority children in the juvenile justice system and improving conditions of confinement for juveniles. In addition, the incentive grants offered in S 678 will ensure the proper implementation of treatment programs for juveniles with mental health and substance abuse conditions. These much-needed grant programs will develop collaborative plans to address the needs of juveniles at risk of entering the juvenile justice system, an essential component for long-term success of the program.

“With its important vote today to pass S 678, the Senate Judiciary Committee has demonstrated dedication to the health and well-being of children. The Academy urges the House of Representatives to follow suit by taking up this issue in their chamber at the start of the new year. The Academy looks forward to working with both chambers of Congress to successfully reauthorize JJDPA and ensure that juveniles in the justice system receive the protections they need to grow into the successful adults of tomorrow.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. For more information, visit www.aap.org.