Juvenile Justice Funding Trends
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Juvenile Justice Funding Trends
March 31, 2022January 24, 2023
Although juvenile justice has always been administered by the states, the federal government has Although juvenile justice has always been administered by the states, the federal government has
played a role through the administration of grant programs. Congress has influenced states’ played a role through the administration of grant programs. Congress has influenced states’
Emily J. Hanson
juvenile justice systems by authorizing and funding grant programs administered by the juvenile justice systems by authorizing and funding grant programs administered by the
Analyst Analystin Social Policy Social Policy
Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP).
Kristin Finklea
The Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA; P.L. 93-415), enacted in 1974, The Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA; P.L. 93-415), enacted in 1974,
Specialist in Domestic
was the first comprehensive juvenile justice legislation passed by Congress. The JJDPA was the first comprehensive juvenile justice legislation passed by Congress. The JJDPA
Security
authorized a series of grant programs designed to support state juvenile justice systems and authorized a series of grant programs designed to support state juvenile justice systems and
prevent juvenile delinquency. Since its enactment, the JJDPA has undergone several key prevent juvenile delinquency. Since its enactment, the JJDPA has undergone several key
amendments, including a significant reorganization in 2002 (by the 21st Century Department of amendments, including a significant reorganization in 2002 (by the 21st Century Department of
Justice Appropriations Authorization Act; P.L. 107-273). Its grant programs were most recently Justice Appropriations Authorization Act; P.L. 107-273). Its grant programs were most recently
amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385). amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385).
Funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA, as well as for other non-JJDPA grant programs Funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA, as well as for other non-JJDPA grant programsthat are administered by administered by
OJJDP, is provided through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the annual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related OJJDP, is provided through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the annual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related
Agencies appropriations act. After the restructuring of juvenile justice grant programs in 2002, total funding for these Agencies appropriations act. After the restructuring of juvenile justice grant programs in 2002, total funding for these
programs began to decline. This decline generally continued through FY2007, after which funding for these programs started programs began to decline. This decline generally continued through FY2007, after which funding for these programs started
to increase. For FY2010, Congress provided $424 million for juvenile justice programs—the largest appropriation since to increase. For FY2010, Congress provided $424 million for juvenile justice programs—the largest appropriation since
FY2003. Juvenile justice funding then generally declined again from FY2010 through FY2017. After appropriating a low of FY2003. Juvenile justice funding then generally declined again from FY2010 through FY2017. After appropriating a low of
$247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased juvenile justice funding annually from FY2018 $247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased juvenile justice funding annually from FY2018
through throughFY2022. FY2023. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 20222023 (P.L. 117- (P.L. 117-103328), provided $), provided $360400 million for juvenile justice million for juvenile justice
programs for programs forFY2022FY2023—the largest appropriation since FY2010. —the largest appropriation since FY2010.
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Contents
Juvenile Justice Legislation and Grant Programs ............................................................................ 1
State Formula Grant Program ................................................................................................... 1
Title V Incentive Youth Promise Grants for Local Delinquency Prevention ............................ 2
Victims of Child Abuse Act Grants ........................................................................................... 2
Juvenile Mentoring Program ..................................................................................................... 2
Juvenile Accountability Block Grants ....................................................................................... 3
Juvenile Justice Appropriations ....................................................................................................... 3
Historical Appropriations by Program ...................................................................................... 4
Figures
Figure 1. Total Juvenile Justice Programs Appropriations, FY2002-FY2022FY2023 ................................. 3
Tables
Table 1. Juvenile Justice Appropriations by Program,FY2013-FY2022FY2014-FY2023 ........................................ 65
Contacts
Author Information ..........................................................................................................................87
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he federal government has no juvenile justice system of its own. Rather, juvenile justice is he federal government has no juvenile justice system of its own. Rather, juvenile justice is
administered by the states. The federal government, though, seeks to influence states’ administered by the states. The federal government, though, seeks to influence states’
T juvenile justice systems through the administration of grant programs and the provision of T juvenile justice systems through the administration of grant programs and the provision of
funds.1 funds.1
This report provides a brief overview of funding for the juvenile justice-related grant programs This report provides a brief overview of funding for the juvenile justice-related grant programs
administered by the Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency administered by the Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Prevention (OJJDP). Prevention (OJJDP).
Juvenile Justice Legislation and Grant Programs
A number of federally funded juvenile justice grant programs are authorized by the Juvenile A number of federally funded juvenile justice grant programs are authorized by the Juvenile
Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA, P.L. 93-415). Since its enactment, the Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA, P.L. 93-415). Since its enactment, the
JJDPA has been revised by several key amendments, including a significant reorganization in JJDPA has been revised by several key amendments, including a significant reorganization in
2002 (by the 21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act; P.L. 107-273). 2002 (by the 21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act; P.L. 107-273).
Its grant programs were most recently amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform Its grant programs were most recently amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform
Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385). Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385).
The JJDPA as originally enacted had three main components: (1) it established OJJDP to The JJDPA as originally enacted had three main components: (1) it established OJJDP to
coordinate and administer federal juvenile justice efforts; (2) it created grant programs to assist coordinate and administer federal juvenile justice efforts; (2) it created grant programs to assist
states with their juvenile justice systems; and (3) it promulgated core mandates to which states states with their juvenile justice systems; and (3) it promulgated core mandates to which states
must adhere in order to be eligible for certain grant funding. Although the JJDPA has been must adhere in order to be eligible for certain grant funding. Although the JJDPA has been
amended several times over the past 40amended several times over the past 40+ years, it continues to feature these three components. years, it continues to feature these three components.
The JJDPA has been the primary channel through which the federal government has provided The JJDPA has been the primary channel through which the federal government has provided
juvenile justice funding to states. However, other programs also administered by OJJDP have juvenile justice funding to states. However, other programs also administered by OJJDP have
contributed to overall federal juvenile justice funding. contributed to overall federal juvenile justice funding.
The following section outlines various juvenile justice grant programs, including those authorized The following section outlines various juvenile justice grant programs, including those authorized
by the JJDPA. Grants noted in this section have been congressionally authorized at some point in by the JJDPA. Grants noted in this section have been congressionally authorized at some point in
time and have received an appropriation at least once in the 10-year period from time and have received an appropriation at least once in the 10-year period fromFY2013FY2014 through through
FY2022FY2023. Congress has also provided appropriations for juvenile justice programs that do not have . Congress has also provided appropriations for juvenile justice programs that do not have
separate authorizations of appropriations; these programs are not discussed in this section, but separate authorizations of appropriations; these programs are not discussed in this section, but
they are included ithey are included in Table 1, which outlines funding for juvenile justice programs since hich outlines funding for juvenile justice programs sinceFY2013FY2014. .
State Formula Grant Program
The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make formula grants to states2 for the planning, establishment, The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make formula grants to states2 for the planning, establishment,
operation, coordination, and evaluation of projects that develop more effective juvenile operation, coordination, and evaluation of projects that develop more effective juvenile
delinquency programs and improve juvenile justice systems.3 Funds are allocated annually based delinquency programs and improve juvenile justice systems.3 Funds are allocated annually based
on each state’s relative population of people under age 18. States must adhere to certain core on each state’s relative population of people under age 18. States must adhere to certain core
mandates to receive their funding.4 The Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385) mandates to receive their funding.4 The Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385)
amended and reauthorized this program through FY2023.
1 For more information on the legislative history of juvenile justice and details on the grant programs outlined in this 1 For more information on the legislative history of juvenile justice and details on the grant programs outlined in this
report, refer to CRS Report RL33947, report, refer to CRS Report RL33947, Juvenile Justice: Legislative History and Current Legislative Issues. .
2 The term 2 The term state includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the
Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands).
3 34 U.S.C. §11131. 3 34 U.S.C. §11131.
4 There are four core mandates with which—unless for specified exceptions—states must generally comply: states must 4 There are four core mandates with which—unless for specified exceptions—states must generally comply: states must
keep status offenders (such as truants) out of secure detention or correctional facilities; states cannot detain or confine keep status offenders (such as truants) out of secure detention or correctional facilities; states cannot detain or confine
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juveniles in facilities in which they would have contact with adult inmates; juveniles cannot be detained or confined in any jail or lockup for adults; and states must show that they are working to address racial and ethnic disparities within
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amended and reauthorized this program through FY2023. For FY2023, this program was appropriated $75 million (P.L. 117-328).
Title V Incentive Youth Promise Grants for Local Delinquency
Prevention
The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make grants to states5, which are then transmitted through The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make grants to states5, which are then transmitted through
subgrants to units of local government (or nonprofits in partnership with units of local subgrants to units of local government (or nonprofits in partnership with units of local
government) for delinquency prevention programs for juveniles who have come into contact with, government) for delinquency prevention programs for juveniles who have come into contact with,
or are at risk to come into contact with, the juvenile justice system.6 The Juvenile Justice Reform or are at risk to come into contact with, the juvenile justice system.6 The Juvenile Justice Reform
Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385) amended and reauthorized this program through FY2023. The JJDPA Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385) amended and reauthorized this program through FY2023. The JJDPA
also authorizes OJJDP to make grants to eligible Indian tribes to support delinquency prevention also authorizes OJJDP to make grants to eligible Indian tribes to support delinquency prevention
programs for at-risk youth or those who have come into contact with the juvenile justice system. programs for at-risk youth or those who have come into contact with the juvenile justice system.
Traditionally, Congress dedicates amounts from the total appropriation for the Title V program for Traditionally, Congress dedicates amounts from the total appropriation for the Title V program for
specific programs and purposes areas (e.g., the Tribal Youth program or preventing gang specific programs and purposes areas (e.g., the Tribal Youth program or preventing gang
violence).violence).
For FY2023, this program was appropriated $65 million (P.L. 117-328). Victims of Child Abuse Act Grants
The Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990 (Title II of the Crime Control Act of 1990, P.L. 101-647) The Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990 (Title II of the Crime Control Act of 1990, P.L. 101-647)
authorizes several grant programs administered by OJJDP. authorizes several grant programs administered by OJJDP.
Subtitle A authorizes support for regional and local Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs), Subtitle A authorizes support for regional and local Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs),
including state chapters, and for related training and technical assistance (34 U.S.C. §§20301-including state chapters, and for related training and technical assistance (34 U.S.C. §§20301-
20307). The CAC program was most recently reauthorized (through 20307). The CAC program was most recently reauthorized (throughFY2023) via the Victims of
Child Abuse Act Reauthorization Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-424). For FY2022, it received $33FY2028) via Section 3 of the Respect for Child Survivors Act (P.L. 117-354). For FY2023, it received $41 million (P.L. 117-328 million
(Division B of P.L. 117-103). ).
Subtitle B authorizes support for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) (34 U.S.C. Subtitle B authorizes support for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) (34 U.S.C.
§§20321-20323) and Subtitle C authorizes training of judicial personnel to improve handling of §§20321-20323) and Subtitle C authorizes training of judicial personnel to improve handling of
child abuse and neglect proceedings (34 U.S.C. §§20331-20334). Funding for these activities was child abuse and neglect proceedings (34 U.S.C. §§20331-20334). Funding for these activities was
most recently reauthorized through FY2027 in the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization most recently reauthorized through FY2027 in the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization
Act of 2022 (Division W of P.L. 117-103). For Act of 2022 (Division W of P.L. 117-103). ForFY2022FY2023, CASA received $, CASA received $1415 million and the million and the
training program received training program received about $5$4 million ( million (Division B of P.L. 117-P.L. 117-103).
328). Juvenile Mentoring Program
The Juvenile Mentoring Program was authorized by the Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency The Juvenile Mentoring Program was authorized by the Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency
Prevention Programs Act (P.L. 102-586). Grants under this program are awarded to local Prevention Programs Act (P.L. 102-586). Grants under this program are awarded to local
educational agencies (in partnership with public or private agencies) to establish and support educational agencies (in partnership with public or private agencies) to establish and support
mentoring programs to reduce delinquent behavior, improve scholastic performance, and reduce mentoring programs to reduce delinquent behavior, improve scholastic performance, and reduce
school dropouts.7 The program has continued to receive appropriations even though its school dropouts.7 The program has continued to receive appropriations even though its
authorization was repealed (P.L. 107-273).
juveniles in facilities in which they would have contact with adult inmates; juveniles cannot be detained or confined in
any jail or lockup for adults; and states must show that they are working to address racial and ethnic disparities within
their juvenile justice systems. their juvenile justice systems.
5 The term 5 The term state includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the
Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands).
6 34 U.S.C. §11313. 6 34 U.S.C. §11313.
7 For more information on the Juvenile Mentoring Program and youth mentoring, see CRS Report RL34306, 7 For more information on the Juvenile Mentoring Program and youth mentoring, see CRS Report RL34306,
Vulnerable Youth: Federal Mentoring Programs and Issues. .
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Juvenile Accountability Block Grants
Congress initially established the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant (JABG) program by
appropriating funding for it in the FY1998 Department of Justice Appropriations Act (P.L. 105-
119). Congress subsequently authorized the JABG program through P.L. 107-273.8 Although the
authorization for the JABG program is not a part of the JJDPA, it nevertheless is administered by
OJJDP. The JABG program authorizes the Attorney General to make grants to states and units of
local government to strengthen their juvenile justice systems, including holding juveniles
accountable for their actions.9 Authorization for this program expired in FY2009, but Congress
continued to provide appropriations through FY2013authorization was repealed (P.L. 107-273). For FY2023, this program was appropriated $107 million (P.L. 117-328). .
Juvenile Justice Appropriations
Congress appropriates funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA as well as for other non-Congress appropriates funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA as well as for other non-
JJDPA juvenile justice grant programs through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the JJDPA juvenile justice grant programs through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the
annual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Actannual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Figure 1 shows shows
total appropriations for juvenile justice programs from FY2002 through total appropriations for juvenile justice programs from FY2002 throughFY2022FY2023. .
Figure 1. Total Juvenile Justice Programs Appropriations, FY2002-FY2022FY2023
(dollars in millions) (dollars in millions)
Sources: FY2002 enacted taken from H.Rept. 107-278. FY2003 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-10. FY2004 FY2002 enacted taken from H.Rept. 107-278. FY2003 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-10. FY2004
enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-401. FY2005 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-792. FY2006 enacted taken from enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-401. FY2005 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-792. FY2006 enacted taken from
H.Rept. 109-272. FY2007 appropriation is based on FY2006 enacted minus a 1.28% rescission, as per P.L. 110-5. H.Rept. 109-272. FY2007 appropriation is based on FY2006 enacted minus a 1.28% rescission, as per P.L. 110-5.
FY2008 enacted taken from P.L. 110-161. FY2009 enacted taken from P.L. 111-8. FY2010 enacted taken from FY2008 enacted taken from P.L. 110-161. FY2009 enacted taken from P.L. 111-8. FY2010 enacted taken from
P.L. 111-117. FY2011 enacted based on a CRS analysis of the text of P.L. 112-10. FY2012 enacted taken from P.L. P.L. 111-117. FY2011 enacted based on a CRS analysis of the text of P.L. 112-10. FY2012 enacted taken from P.L.
112-55. FY2013 amount provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. FY2014 enacted taken from P.L. 113-76. 112-55. FY2013 amount provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. FY2014 enacted taken from P.L. 113-76.
FY2015 enacted taken from P.L. 113-235. FY2016 enacted taken from P.L. 114-113. FY2017 enacted taken from FY2015 enacted taken from P.L. 113-235. FY2016 enacted taken from P.L. 114-113. FY2017 enacted taken from
8 The Juvenile Accountability Block Grant (JABG) program was codified within the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe
Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. §10401).
9 The one core mandate of the JABG program is that states must begin to implement a system of graduated sanctions to
be eligible for funding.
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P.L. 115-31. FY2018 enacted taken from P.L. 115-141. FY2019 enacted taken from P.L. 116-6. FY2020 enacted P.L. 115-31. FY2018 enacted taken from P.L. 115-141. FY2019 enacted taken from P.L. 116-6. FY2020 enacted
taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L. 116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103.taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L. 116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103. FY2023 enacted taken from P.L. 117-328.
Notes: Numbers are rounded. Amounts are in nominal dol ars. The amounts include all rescissions of current Numbers are rounded. Amounts are in nominal dol ars. The amounts include all rescissions of current
year budget authority. The FY2013 funding level also reflects sequestration pursuant to the Budget Control Act year budget authority. The FY2013 funding level also reflects sequestration pursuant to the Budget Control Act
of 2011 (P.L. 112-25). JJDPA = Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (P.L. 93-415). of 2011 (P.L. 112-25). JJDPA = Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (P.L. 93-415).
Overall fundingFunding for juvenile justice programs for juvenile justice programs, which had typically been above $500 million,
peaked peaked in 2002 at $565 million at $565 million in FY2002. From FY2002 to FY2007, however, overall funding fell by . From FY2002 to FY2007, however, overall funding fell by
38% to $348 million. The majority of this reduction came from cuts to the 38% to $348 million. The majority of this reduction came from cuts to theJABG program.
Juvenile Accountability Block Grant (JABG) program.8 Appropriations for JABG fell 8 Although the authorization for the JABG program was not a part of the JJDPA, it nevertheless was administered by OJJDP. The JABG program authorized the Attorney General to make grants to states and units of local government to strengthen their juvenile justice systems, including holding juveniles accountable for their actions. Authorization for this program expired in FY2009, but Congress continued to provide appropriations through FY2013. Congressional Research Service 3 link to page 8 Juvenile Justice Funding TrendsAppropriations for JABG fell from a high of $250 million in FY2002 to $49 million in FY2007. from a high of $250 million in FY2002 to $49 million in FY2007.
From FY2007 to FY2010, total funding for juvenile justice programs increased by almost 22% to From FY2007 to FY2010, total funding for juvenile justice programs increased by almost 22% to
$424 million, with funding for JJDPA programs increasing by 27% to $331 million over this same $424 million, with funding for JJDPA programs increasing by 27% to $331 million over this same
period. This was the largest juvenile justice appropriation since FY2003. period. This was the largest juvenile justice appropriation since FY2003.
Funding for juvenile justice programs again began to decline in FY2011, and that decline Funding for juvenile justice programs again began to decline in FY2011, and that decline
generally continued through FY2017. From FY2010 to FY2017, total funding for juvenile justice generally continued through FY2017. From FY2010 to FY2017, total funding for juvenile justice
programs decreased by nearly 42%, from $424 million to $247 million. Contributing to this drop, programs decreased by nearly 42%, from $424 million to $247 million. Contributing to this drop,
Congress eliminated funding for the Challenge Congress eliminated funding for the ChallengeGrants10Grants9 in FY2011 and for the JABG program in in FY2011 and for the JABG program in
FY2014. During this time period, FY2014. During this time period,however, Congress also started appropriating funding for Congress also started appropriating funding for
programs that had not previously been funded under the Juvenile Justice Programs account, programs that had not previously been funded under the Juvenile Justice Programs account,
including funding for missing and exploited children programs, child abuse training programs for including funding for missing and exploited children programs, child abuse training programs for
judicial personnel and practitioners, and grants and technical assistance in support of a National judicial personnel and practitioners, and grants and technical assistance in support of a National
Forum on Youth Violence Prevention. Forum on Youth Violence Prevention.
After appropriating $247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased After appropriating $247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased
juvenile funding annually from FY2018 through FY2022. Congress increased funding for juvenile funding annually from FY2018 through FY2022. Congress increased funding for
juvenile justice programs to nearly $283 million for FY2018, and it included funds for a new juvenile justice programs to nearly $283 million for FY2018, and it included funds for a new
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative. Congress again increased juvenile justice program funding to Opioid Affected Youth Initiative. Congress again increased juvenile justice program funding to
$287 million in FY2019, and it set aside money for an initiative serving children exposed to $287 million in FY2019, and it set aside money for an initiative serving children exposed to
violence.violence.1110 Congress then increased funding for juvenile justice programs to $320 million for Congress then increased funding for juvenile justice programs to $320 million for
FY2020 and included a new set-aside from the Title V Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency FY2020 and included a new set-aside from the Title V Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency
Prevention for grants to prevent trafficking of girls. Congress continued to increase funding for Prevention for grants to prevent trafficking of girls. Congress continued to increase funding for
FY2021 and FY2022, and Congress most recently appropriated $FY2021 and FY2022, and Congress most recently appropriated $360400 million for juvenile justice million for juvenile justice
programs for programs forFY2022FY2023—the largest appropriation since the $424 million —the largest appropriation since the $424 million provided in FY2010. in FY2010.
Historical Appropriations by Program
Table 1 provides a breakdown of funding for the Juvenile Justice Programs account by program provides a breakdown of funding for the Juvenile Justice Programs account by program
for the 10-year period from for the 10-year period fromFY2013 to FY2022FY2014 to FY2023. .
Appropriations for specific programs in the Juvenile Justice Programs account can vary from year Appropriations for specific programs in the Juvenile Justice Programs account can vary from year
to year. In addition, Congress sometimes provides funding for programs as a specific line item in to year. In addition, Congress sometimes provides funding for programs as a specific line item in
the Juvenile Justice Programs account, but in other years funding for those programs is provided the Juvenile Justice Programs account, but in other years funding for those programs is provided
as a set-aside from another program in the account. For example, the Community Based Violence as a set-aside from another program in the account. For example, the Community Based Violence
Prevention Initiative and the Competitive Grants Focusing on Girls in the Juvenile Justice System Prevention Initiative and the Competitive Grants Focusing on Girls in the Juvenile Justice System
Program have received line item appropriations in some fiscal years and have been funded by set-Program have received line item appropriations in some fiscal years and have been funded by set-
asides from the Title V Incentive Grants Program in other years. By contrast, some programs, asides from the Title V Incentive Grants Program in other years. By contrast, some programs,
when funded, have consistently been funded through set-asides from the Title V program (e.g., the Tribal Youth program).
109 The Challenge Grants program authorized OJJDP to make discretionary grants to state, local, and tribal governments The Challenge Grants program authorized OJJDP to make discretionary grants to state, local, and tribal governments
and private entities to carry out programs to develop, test, or demonstrate promising new initiatives that may prevent, and private entities to carry out programs to develop, test, or demonstrate promising new initiatives that may prevent,
control, or reduce juvenile delinquency. The program last received appropriations in FY2010. control, or reduce juvenile delinquency. The program last received appropriations in FY2010.
1110 Funding for this purpose was previously provided under the State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Account Funding for this purpose was previously provided under the State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Account
from FY2012 to FY2016. from FY2012 to FY2016.
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when funded, have consistently been funded through set-asides from the Title V program (e.g.,
the tribal youth program and grants focused on girls in the juvenile justice system).
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Table 1. Juvenile Justice Appropriations by Program,FY2013-FY2022FY2014-FY2023
(dollars in millions) (dollars in millions)
Program
FY2013a
FY2014
FY2015 FY2016
FY2017
FY2014 FY2015
FY2016 FY2017 FY2018
FY2019
FY2020
FY2021
FY2022 FY2023
State Formula Grants State Formula Grants
41
56 56
55 55
58 58
55 55
60 60
60 60
63 63
67 67
70 70
75 Emergency Planning—
—(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
Juvenile Detention Facilities
Juvenile Mentoring Program Grant Juvenile Mentoring Program Grant
84
89 89
90 90
90 90
80 80
94 94
95 95
97 97
100 100
102 102 107
Title V Incentive Grants for Local Title V Incentive Grants for Local
19
15 15
15 15
18 18
15 15
28 28
25 25
42 42
49 49
50 50
65 Delinquency Prevention Delinquency Prevention
Community Gang Prevention
(5)
(3)
(3)
(5)
(4)
(4)
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Tribal Youth Program
(9)
(5)
(5)
(10)
—
(5)
(5)
(5)
(10)
(14) (17)
Enforcing Underage Drinking
(53)
(3)—
—
—
—
——
— —
— —
— —
— —
Laws
Juvenile Justice and Education
—
(5)
—
—
—
—
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Collaboration Assistance
Community-Based Violence
—
—
(6)
—
(8)
(8)
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Prevention Initiative
National Forum on Youth Violence
—
—
(1)
—
—
—
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Prevention
Children of Incarcerated Parents
—
—
—(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
Web Portal
Competitive Grants Focusing on
—
—
—(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(23)
(35)
(56)
Girls in the Juvenile Justice System
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative
—
—
—
—
—
(8)
(9)
(10)
(10)
(12)
(13) Children Exposed to Violence
—
—
—
—
—
—(8)
(8)
(8)
(8)
(810)
Initiative
Prevention of Trafficking of Girls
—
—
—
—
—
—
—(2)
(2)
(24)
(45)
Vulnerable and At-Risk Youth
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—(3)
(32)
Initiative
CRS- CRS-65
link to page link to page109 link to page link to page 109 link to page link to page 109 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9
Program
FY2014 FY2015
FY2016 FY2017 FY2018
FY2019
FY2020 FY2021
FY2022 FY2023
Victims of Child Abuse Act
link to page 10
Program
FY2013a
FY2014
FY2015 FY2016
FY2017
FY2018
FY2019
FY2020
FY2021
FY2022
Juvenile Accountability Block Grant
23
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Victims of Child Abuse Act
18
19 19
19 19
20 20
21 21
21 21
23 23
27 27
30 30
33 33
41 Community-Based Violence Community-Based Violence
10
6 6
—ba
8 8
—ba
—ba
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Prevention Initiative Prevention Initiative
Missing and Exploited Children Missing and Exploited Children
63
67 67
68 68
72 72
73 73
76 76
82 82
88 88
94 94
99 99
105 Child Abuse Training Child Abuse Training
1
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
3 3
4 4
4 4
4 4
5 National Forum on Youth Violence National Forum on Youth Violence
21
1—b
— —c
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
Prevention Prevention
Competitive Grants Focusing on Competitive Grants Focusing on
—1
1
2
—d
—d
—d
—d
—d
—d
—d2
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
Girls in the Juvenile Justice System Girls in the Juvenile Justice System
Children of Incarcerated Parents Children of Incarcerated Parents
—1
1
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
—c
1
1
—d
—d
—d
—d
—d
—d
—d
Web Portal Web Portal
Improving Indigent Defense Improving Indigent Defense
— —
— —
—
3 3
2 2
2 2
— —
— —
3 3
3 3
3 Total Juvenile Justice
261
255
252
270
247
283
287
320
346
360
400 Appropriation Sources:Appropriation
Sources: FY2011 enacted based on a CRS analysis of the text of P.L. 112-10. FY2012 enacted taken from P.L. 112-55. FY2013 amount provided by the U.S. Department
of Justice (DOJ). FY2014 enacted taken from P.L. 113-76. FY2015 enacted taken from P.L. 113-235. FY2016 enacted taken from P.L. 114-113. FY2017 enacted taken from FY2014 enacted taken from P.L. 113-76. FY2015 enacted taken from P.L. 113-235. FY2016 enacted taken from P.L. 114-113. FY2017 enacted taken from
P.L. 115-31. FY2018 enacted taken from P.L. 115-141. FY2019 enacted taken from P.L. 116-6. FY2020 enacted taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L. P.L. 115-31. FY2018 enacted taken from P.L. 115-141. FY2019 enacted taken from P.L. 116-6. FY2020 enacted taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L.
116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103. 116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103.
FY2023 enacted taken from P.L. 117-328. Notes: Numbers in parentheses are nonadds that have been set aside from other grant programs. Amounts may not add to totals due to rounding. Amounts are in Numbers in parentheses are nonadds that have been set aside from other grant programs. Amounts may not add to totals due to rounding. Amounts are in
nominal dol ars. nominal dol ars.
a. a.The FY2013 amounts reflect rescissions of discretionary budget authority provided in P.L. 113-6 as specified in § 3001 of the act. Per § 3001, a rescission of 1.877%
was applied to appropriations for discretionary nonsecurity (as defined at 2 U.S.C. § 900(c)(4)(A)) accounts, including juvenile justice. The post-rescission amounts
also include an additional rescission, as calculated by the Office of Management and Budget per § 3004 of the act, of 0.2% for discretionary nonsecurity accounts. In
addition, the FY2013 funding levels reflect reductions that resulted from the sequestration ordered by President Obama on March 1, 2013, pursuant to the Budget
Control Act of 2011 (P.L. 112-25).
b. For FY2015, FY2017, and FY2018, funding for the Community-Based Violence Prevention Initiative was appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive For FY2015, FY2017, and FY2018, funding for the Community-Based Violence Prevention Initiative was appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive
Grants. Grants.
cb. For FY2015, funding for the National Forum on Youth Violence Prevention was appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive Grants. . For FY2015, funding for the National Forum on Youth Violence Prevention was appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive Grants.
dc. For FY2016-. For FY2016-FY2022FY2023, funding for the Competitive Grants Focusing on Girls in the Juvenile Justice System and the Children of Incarcerated Parents Web Portal was , funding for the Competitive Grants Focusing on Girls in the Juvenile Justice System and the Children of Incarcerated Parents Web Portal was
appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive Grants. appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive Grants.
CRS- CRS-76
Juvenile Justice Funding Trends
Author Information
Emily J. Hanson Emily J. Hanson
Kristin Finklea
Analyst Analystin Social Policy Social Policy
Specialist in Domestic Security
Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
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Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
R44879 R44879 · VERSION1214 · UPDATED
87
Although juvenile justice has always been administered by the states, the federal government has Although juvenile justice has always been administered by the states, the federal government has
played a role through the administration of grant programs. Congress has influenced states’ played a role through the administration of grant programs. Congress has influenced states’
Emily J. Hanson
juvenile justice systems by authorizing and funding grant programs administered by the juvenile justice systems by authorizing and funding grant programs administered by the
Analyst Analyst
Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP).
was the first comprehensive juvenile justice legislation passed by Congress. The JJDPA was the first comprehensive juvenile justice legislation passed by Congress. The JJDPA
amendments, including a significant reorganization in 2002 (by the 21st Century Department of amendments, including a significant reorganization in 2002 (by the 21st Century Department of
amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385). amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385).
Funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA, as well as for other non-JJDPA grant programs Funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA, as well as for other non-JJDPA grant programs
OJJDP, is provided through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the annual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related OJJDP, is provided through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the annual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related
Agencies appropriations act. After the restructuring of juvenile justice grant programs in 2002, total funding for these Agencies appropriations act. After the restructuring of juvenile justice grant programs in 2002, total funding for these
programs began to decline. This decline generally continued through FY2007, after which funding for these programs started programs began to decline. This decline generally continued through FY2007, after which funding for these programs started
to increase. For FY2010, Congress provided $424 million for juvenile justice programs—the largest appropriation since to increase. For FY2010, Congress provided $424 million for juvenile justice programs—the largest appropriation since
FY2003. Juvenile justice funding then generally declined again from FY2010 through FY2017. After appropriating a low of FY2003. Juvenile justice funding then generally declined again from FY2010 through FY2017. After appropriating a low of
$247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased juvenile justice funding annually from FY2018 $247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased juvenile justice funding annually from FY2018
through through
programs for programs for
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
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Contents
Juvenile Justice Legislation and Grant Programs ............................................................................ 1
State Formula Grant Program ................................................................................................... 1
Title V Incentive Youth Promise Grants for Local Delinquency Prevention ............................ 2
Victims of Child Abuse Act Grants ........................................................................................... 2
Juvenile Mentoring Program ..................................................................................................... 2
Juvenile Justice Appropriations ....................................................................................................... 3
Historical Appropriations by Program ...................................................................................... 4
Figures
Figure 1. Total Juvenile Justice Programs Appropriations, FY2002-
Tables
Table 1. Juvenile Justice Appropriations by Program,
Contacts
Author Information ..........................................................................................................................
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
link to page link to page
he federal government has no juvenile justice system of its own. Rather, juvenile justice is he federal government has no juvenile justice system of its own. Rather, juvenile justice is
administered by the states. The federal government, though, seeks to influence states’ administered by the states. The federal government, though, seeks to influence states’
T juvenile justice systems through the administration of grant programs and the provision of T juvenile justice systems through the administration of grant programs and the provision of
funds.1 funds.1
This report provides a brief overview of funding for the juvenile justice-related grant programs This report provides a brief overview of funding for the juvenile justice-related grant programs
administered by the Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency administered by the Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Prevention (OJJDP). Prevention (OJJDP).
Juvenile Justice Legislation and Grant Programs
A number of federally funded juvenile justice grant programs are authorized by the Juvenile A number of federally funded juvenile justice grant programs are authorized by the Juvenile
Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA, P.L. 93-415). Since its enactment, the Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA, P.L. 93-415). Since its enactment, the
JJDPA has been revised by several key amendments, including a significant reorganization in JJDPA has been revised by several key amendments, including a significant reorganization in
2002 (by the 21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act; P.L. 107-273). 2002 (by the 21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act; P.L. 107-273).
Its grant programs were most recently amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform Its grant programs were most recently amended and reauthorized by the Juvenile Justice Reform
Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385). Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385).
The JJDPA as originally enacted had three main components: (1) it established OJJDP to The JJDPA as originally enacted had three main components: (1) it established OJJDP to
coordinate and administer federal juvenile justice efforts; (2) it created grant programs to assist coordinate and administer federal juvenile justice efforts; (2) it created grant programs to assist
states with their juvenile justice systems; and (3) it promulgated core mandates to which states states with their juvenile justice systems; and (3) it promulgated core mandates to which states
must adhere in order to be eligible for certain grant funding. Although the JJDPA has been must adhere in order to be eligible for certain grant funding. Although the JJDPA has been
amended several times over the past 40amended several times over the past 40+ years, it continues to feature these three components. years, it continues to feature these three components.
The JJDPA has been the primary channel through which the federal government has provided The JJDPA has been the primary channel through which the federal government has provided
juvenile justice funding to states. However, other programs also administered by OJJDP have juvenile justice funding to states. However, other programs also administered by OJJDP have
contributed to overall federal juvenile justice funding. contributed to overall federal juvenile justice funding.
The following section outlines various juvenile justice grant programs, including those authorized The following section outlines various juvenile justice grant programs, including those authorized
by the JJDPA. Grants noted in this section have been congressionally authorized at some point in by the JJDPA. Grants noted in this section have been congressionally authorized at some point in
time and have received an appropriation at least once in the 10-year period from time and have received an appropriation at least once in the 10-year period from
separate authorizations of appropriations; these programs are not discussed in this section, but separate authorizations of appropriations; these programs are not discussed in this section, but
they are included ithey are included in Table 1, which outlines funding for juvenile justice programs since hich outlines funding for juvenile justice programs since
State Formula Grant Program
The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make formula grants to states2 for the planning, establishment, The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make formula grants to states2 for the planning, establishment,
operation, coordination, and evaluation of projects that develop more effective juvenile operation, coordination, and evaluation of projects that develop more effective juvenile
delinquency programs and improve juvenile justice systems.3 Funds are allocated annually based delinquency programs and improve juvenile justice systems.3 Funds are allocated annually based
on each state’s relative population of people under age 18. States must adhere to certain core on each state’s relative population of people under age 18. States must adhere to certain core
mandates to receive their funding.4 The Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385) mandates to receive their funding.4 The Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385)
1 For more information on the legislative history of juvenile justice and details on the grant programs outlined in this 1 For more information on the legislative history of juvenile justice and details on the grant programs outlined in this
report, refer to CRS Report RL33947, report, refer to CRS Report RL33947, Juvenile Justice: Legislative History and Current Legislative Issues. .
2 The term 2 The term state includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the
Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands).
3 34 U.S.C. §11131. 3 34 U.S.C. §11131.
4 There are four core mandates with which—unless for specified exceptions—states must generally comply: states must 4 There are four core mandates with which—unless for specified exceptions—states must generally comply: states must
keep status offenders (such as truants) out of secure detention or correctional facilities; states cannot detain or confine keep status offenders (such as truants) out of secure detention or correctional facilities; states cannot detain or confine
Title V Incentive Youth Promise Grants for Local Delinquency
Prevention
The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make grants to states5, which are then transmitted through The JJDPA authorizes OJJDP to make grants to states5, which are then transmitted through
subgrants to units of local government (or nonprofits in partnership with units of local subgrants to units of local government (or nonprofits in partnership with units of local
government) for delinquency prevention programs for juveniles who have come into contact with, government) for delinquency prevention programs for juveniles who have come into contact with,
or are at risk to come into contact with, the juvenile justice system.6 The Juvenile Justice Reform or are at risk to come into contact with, the juvenile justice system.6 The Juvenile Justice Reform
Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385) amended and reauthorized this program through FY2023. The JJDPA Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-385) amended and reauthorized this program through FY2023. The JJDPA
also authorizes OJJDP to make grants to eligible Indian tribes to support delinquency prevention also authorizes OJJDP to make grants to eligible Indian tribes to support delinquency prevention
programs for at-risk youth or those who have come into contact with the juvenile justice system. programs for at-risk youth or those who have come into contact with the juvenile justice system.
Traditionally, Congress dedicates amounts from the total appropriation for the Title V program for Traditionally, Congress dedicates amounts from the total appropriation for the Title V program for
specific programs and purposes areas (e.g., the Tribal Youth program or preventing gang specific programs and purposes areas (e.g., the Tribal Youth program or preventing gang
violence).violence).
For FY2023, this program was appropriated $65 million (P.L. 117-328). Victims of Child Abuse Act Grants
The Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990 (Title II of the Crime Control Act of 1990, P.L. 101-647) The Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990 (Title II of the Crime Control Act of 1990, P.L. 101-647)
authorizes several grant programs administered by OJJDP. authorizes several grant programs administered by OJJDP.
Subtitle A authorizes support for regional and local Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs), Subtitle A authorizes support for regional and local Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs),
including state chapters, and for related training and technical assistance (34 U.S.C. §§20301-including state chapters, and for related training and technical assistance (34 U.S.C. §§20301-
20307). The CAC program was most recently reauthorized (through 20307). The CAC program was most recently reauthorized (through
Subtitle B authorizes support for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) (34 U.S.C. Subtitle B authorizes support for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) (34 U.S.C.
§§20321-20323) and Subtitle C authorizes training of judicial personnel to improve handling of §§20321-20323) and Subtitle C authorizes training of judicial personnel to improve handling of
child abuse and neglect proceedings (34 U.S.C. §§20331-20334). Funding for these activities was child abuse and neglect proceedings (34 U.S.C. §§20331-20334). Funding for these activities was
most recently reauthorized through FY2027 in the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization most recently reauthorized through FY2027 in the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization
Act of 2022 (Division W of P.L. 117-103). For Act of 2022 (Division W of P.L. 117-103). For
training program received training program received about $5
328). Juvenile Mentoring Program
The Juvenile Mentoring Program was authorized by the Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency The Juvenile Mentoring Program was authorized by the Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency
Prevention Programs Act (P.L. 102-586). Grants under this program are awarded to local Prevention Programs Act (P.L. 102-586). Grants under this program are awarded to local
educational agencies (in partnership with public or private agencies) to establish and support educational agencies (in partnership with public or private agencies) to establish and support
mentoring programs to reduce delinquent behavior, improve scholastic performance, and reduce mentoring programs to reduce delinquent behavior, improve scholastic performance, and reduce
school dropouts.7 The program has continued to receive appropriations even though its school dropouts.7 The program has continued to receive appropriations even though its
their juvenile justice systems. their juvenile justice systems.
5 The term 5 The term state includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories (American Samoa, Guam, the
Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands).
6 34 U.S.C. §11313. 6 34 U.S.C. §11313.
7 For more information on the Juvenile Mentoring Program and youth mentoring, see CRS Report RL34306, 7 For more information on the Juvenile Mentoring Program and youth mentoring, see CRS Report RL34306,
Vulnerable Youth: Federal Mentoring Programs and Issues. .
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
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Juvenile Justice Funding Trends
Juvenile Justice Appropriations
Congress appropriates funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA as well as for other non-Congress appropriates funding for programs authorized by the JJDPA as well as for other non-
JJDPA juvenile justice grant programs through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the JJDPA juvenile justice grant programs through the Juvenile Justice Programs account in the
annual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Actannual Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Figure 1 shows shows
total appropriations for juvenile justice programs from FY2002 through total appropriations for juvenile justice programs from FY2002 through
Figure 1. Total Juvenile Justice Programs Appropriations, FY2002-
(dollars in millions) (dollars in millions)
Sources: FY2002 enacted taken from H.Rept. 107-278. FY2003 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-10. FY2004 FY2002 enacted taken from H.Rept. 107-278. FY2003 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-10. FY2004
enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-401. FY2005 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-792. FY2006 enacted taken from enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-401. FY2005 enacted taken from H.Rept. 108-792. FY2006 enacted taken from
H.Rept. 109-272. FY2007 appropriation is based on FY2006 enacted minus a 1.28% rescission, as per P.L. 110-5. H.Rept. 109-272. FY2007 appropriation is based on FY2006 enacted minus a 1.28% rescission, as per P.L. 110-5.
FY2008 enacted taken from P.L. 110-161. FY2009 enacted taken from P.L. 111-8. FY2010 enacted taken from FY2008 enacted taken from P.L. 110-161. FY2009 enacted taken from P.L. 111-8. FY2010 enacted taken from
P.L. 111-117. FY2011 enacted based on a CRS analysis of the text of P.L. 112-10. FY2012 enacted taken from P.L. P.L. 111-117. FY2011 enacted based on a CRS analysis of the text of P.L. 112-10. FY2012 enacted taken from P.L.
112-55. FY2013 amount provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. FY2014 enacted taken from P.L. 113-76. 112-55. FY2013 amount provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. FY2014 enacted taken from P.L. 113-76.
FY2015 enacted taken from P.L. 113-235. FY2016 enacted taken from P.L. 114-113. FY2017 enacted taken from FY2015 enacted taken from P.L. 113-235. FY2016 enacted taken from P.L. 114-113. FY2017 enacted taken from
taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L. 116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103.taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L. 116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103. FY2023 enacted taken from P.L. 117-328.
Notes: Numbers are rounded. Amounts are in nominal dol ars. The amounts include all rescissions of current Numbers are rounded. Amounts are in nominal dol ars. The amounts include all rescissions of current
year budget authority. The FY2013 funding level also reflects sequestration pursuant to the Budget Control Act year budget authority. The FY2013 funding level also reflects sequestration pursuant to the Budget Control Act
of 2011 (P.L. 112-25). JJDPA = Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (P.L. 93-415). of 2011 (P.L. 112-25). JJDPA = Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (P.L. 93-415).
38% to $348 million. The majority of this reduction came from cuts to the 38% to $348 million. The majority of this reduction came from cuts to the
Juvenile Accountability Block Grant (JABG) program.8 Appropriations for JABG fell 8 Although the authorization for the JABG program was not a part of the JJDPA, it nevertheless was administered by OJJDP. The JABG program authorized the Attorney General to make grants to states and units of local government to strengthen their juvenile justice systems, including holding juveniles accountable for their actions. Authorization for this program expired in FY2009, but Congress continued to provide appropriations through FY2013. Congressional Research Service 3 link to page 8 Juvenile Justice Funding Trends
From FY2007 to FY2010, total funding for juvenile justice programs increased by almost 22% to From FY2007 to FY2010, total funding for juvenile justice programs increased by almost 22% to
$424 million, with funding for JJDPA programs increasing by 27% to $331 million over this same $424 million, with funding for JJDPA programs increasing by 27% to $331 million over this same
period. This was the largest juvenile justice appropriation since FY2003. period. This was the largest juvenile justice appropriation since FY2003.
Funding for juvenile justice programs again began to decline in FY2011, and that decline Funding for juvenile justice programs again began to decline in FY2011, and that decline
generally continued through FY2017. From FY2010 to FY2017, total funding for juvenile justice generally continued through FY2017. From FY2010 to FY2017, total funding for juvenile justice
programs decreased by nearly 42%, from $424 million to $247 million. Contributing to this drop, programs decreased by nearly 42%, from $424 million to $247 million. Contributing to this drop,
Congress eliminated funding for the Challenge Congress eliminated funding for the Challenge
FY2014. During this time period, FY2014. During this time period,
programs that had not previously been funded under the Juvenile Justice Programs account, programs that had not previously been funded under the Juvenile Justice Programs account,
including funding for missing and exploited children programs, child abuse training programs for including funding for missing and exploited children programs, child abuse training programs for
judicial personnel and practitioners, and grants and technical assistance in support of a National judicial personnel and practitioners, and grants and technical assistance in support of a National
Forum on Youth Violence Prevention. Forum on Youth Violence Prevention.
After appropriating $247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased After appropriating $247 million for juvenile justice programs in FY2017, Congress increased
juvenile funding annually from FY2018 through FY2022. Congress increased funding for juvenile funding annually from FY2018 through FY2022. Congress increased funding for
juvenile justice programs to nearly $283 million for FY2018, and it included funds for a new juvenile justice programs to nearly $283 million for FY2018, and it included funds for a new
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative. Congress again increased juvenile justice program funding to Opioid Affected Youth Initiative. Congress again increased juvenile justice program funding to
$287 million in FY2019, and it set aside money for an initiative serving children exposed to $287 million in FY2019, and it set aside money for an initiative serving children exposed to
violence.violence.
FY2020 and included a new set-aside from the Title V Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency FY2020 and included a new set-aside from the Title V Incentive Grants for Local Delinquency
Prevention for grants to prevent trafficking of girls. Congress continued to increase funding for Prevention for grants to prevent trafficking of girls. Congress continued to increase funding for
FY2021 and FY2022, and Congress most recently appropriated $FY2021 and FY2022, and Congress most recently appropriated $
programs for programs for
Historical Appropriations by Program
Table 1 provides a breakdown of funding for the Juvenile Justice Programs account by program provides a breakdown of funding for the Juvenile Justice Programs account by program
for the 10-year period from for the 10-year period from
Appropriations for specific programs in the Juvenile Justice Programs account can vary from year Appropriations for specific programs in the Juvenile Justice Programs account can vary from year
to year. In addition, Congress sometimes provides funding for programs as a specific line item in to year. In addition, Congress sometimes provides funding for programs as a specific line item in
the Juvenile Justice Programs account, but in other years funding for those programs is provided the Juvenile Justice Programs account, but in other years funding for those programs is provided
as a set-aside from another program in the account. For example, the Community Based Violence as a set-aside from another program in the account. For example, the Community Based Violence
Prevention Initiative and the Competitive Grants Focusing on Girls in the Juvenile Justice System Prevention Initiative and the Competitive Grants Focusing on Girls in the Juvenile Justice System
Program have received line item appropriations in some fiscal years and have been funded by set-Program have received line item appropriations in some fiscal years and have been funded by set-
asides from the Title V Incentive Grants Program in other years. By contrast, some programs, asides from the Title V Incentive Grants Program in other years. By contrast, some programs,
when funded, have consistently been funded through set-asides from the Title V program (e.g., the Tribal Youth program).
and private entities to carry out programs to develop, test, or demonstrate promising new initiatives that may prevent, and private entities to carry out programs to develop, test, or demonstrate promising new initiatives that may prevent,
control, or reduce juvenile delinquency. The program last received appropriations in FY2010. control, or reduce juvenile delinquency. The program last received appropriations in FY2010.
from FY2012 to FY2016. from FY2012 to FY2016.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
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Table 1. Juvenile Justice Appropriations by Program,
(dollars in millions) (dollars in millions)
Program
FY2019
FY2020
FY2022 FY2023
State Formula Grants State Formula Grants
55 55
58 58
55 55
60 60
60 60
63 63
67 67
70 70
75 Emergency Planning—
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
Juvenile Detention Facilities
Juvenile Mentoring Program Grant Juvenile Mentoring Program Grant
90 90
90 90
80 80
94 94
95 95
97 97
100 100
102 102 107
Title V Incentive Grants for Local Title V Incentive Grants for Local
15 15
18 18
15 15
28 28
25 25
42 42
49 49
50 50
65 Delinquency Prevention Delinquency Prevention
Community Gang Prevention
(
(3)
(5)
(4)
(4)
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Tribal Youth Program
(
(5)
(10)
—
(5)
(5)
(5)
(10)
(14) (17)
Enforcing Underage Drinking
(
—
—
—
— —
— —
— —
— —
Laws
Juvenile Justice and Education
—
—
—
—
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Collaboration Assistance
Community-Based Violence
—
—
(8)
(8)
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Prevention Initiative
National Forum on Youth Violence
—
—
—
—
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Prevention
Children of Incarcerated Parents
—
—
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
Web Portal
Competitive Grants Focusing on
—
—
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(
(
(
Girls in the Juvenile Justice System
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative
—
—
—
—
(9)
(10)
(10)
(12)
(13) Children Exposed to Violence
—
—
—
—
—
(8)
(8)
(8)
(
Initiative
Prevention of Trafficking of Girls
—
—
—
—
—
—
(2)
(
(
Vulnerable and At-Risk Youth
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(
Initiative
CRS- CRS-
link to page link to page
19 19
20 20
21 21
21 21
23 23
27 27
30 30
33 33
41 Community-Based Violence Community-Based Violence
—
8 8
—
—
— —
— —
— —
— —
— Prevention Initiative Prevention Initiative
Missing and Exploited Children Missing and Exploited Children
68 68
72 72
73 73
76 76
82 82
88 88
94 94
99 99
105 Child Abuse Training Child Abuse Training
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
3 3
4 4
4 4
4 4
5 National Forum on Youth Violence National Forum on Youth Violence
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
Prevention Prevention
Competitive Grants Focusing on Competitive Grants Focusing on
Girls in the Juvenile Justice System Girls in the Juvenile Justice System
Children of Incarcerated Parents Children of Incarcerated Parents
Web Portal Web Portal
Improving Indigent Defense Improving Indigent Defense
— —
— —
2 2
2 2
— —
— —
3 3
3 3
3 Total Juvenile Justice
252
270
247
283
287
320
346
360
400 Appropriation Sources:
P.L. 115-31. FY2018 enacted taken from P.L. 115-141. FY2019 enacted taken from P.L. 116-6. FY2020 enacted taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L. P.L. 115-31. FY2018 enacted taken from P.L. 115-141. FY2019 enacted taken from P.L. 116-6. FY2020 enacted taken from P.L. 116-93. FY2021 enacted taken from P.L.
116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103. 116-260. FY2022 enacted taken from P.L. 117-103.
FY2023 enacted taken from P.L. 117-328. Notes: Numbers in parentheses are nonadds that have been set aside from other grant programs. Amounts may not add to totals due to rounding. Amounts are in Numbers in parentheses are nonadds that have been set aside from other grant programs. Amounts may not add to totals due to rounding. Amounts are in
nominal dol ars. nominal dol ars.
a. a.
Grants. Grants.
appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive Grants. appropriated as set-aside funding from the Title V Incentive Grants.
CRS- CRS-
Juvenile Justice Funding Trends
Author Information
Emily J. Hanson Emily J. Hanson
Analyst Analyst
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