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TJJD Hosts Post-Legislative Conference and Budget Workshop in Austin

AUSTIN, Texas – TJJD welcomed juvenile justice professionals from across the state to Austin for the 11th biennial Post-Legislative Conference and Budget Workshop, held July 31-August 2, 2017, at the Omni Southpark Hotel. The TJJD Post-Legislative Conference had approximately 360 participants in attendance and provided individuals with an overview of changes made during the 85th Texas Legislative session, specifically bills impacting juvenile justice, DFPS, victims of crime, human trafficking, sex offenders, the Code Of Criminal Procedure, the Penal Code, and county government with some of the most notable changes occurring with juvenile records. In addition, audience members heard about legislative appropriations to TJJD and the overall impact of funding changes to the juvenile justice system, along with the enhancement of regionalization efforts.

Representative Gene Wu provided the keynote presentation to participants as a supporter of TJJD’s mission and to the Texas juvenile justice system. Representative Wu represents the people of District 137 (Houston) in the Texas House and served his third term in office in the 85th Legislative Session where he was appointed to the House Committees on Appropriations and Human Services. Representative Wu spoke highly of the work the field did as a whole this legislative session and the work we collectively have to do. He encouraged individuals interested in sharing their passion and ideas to contact him directly as he continues to be an advocate for promoting services within the Texas juvenile justice system.

TJJD’s Budget Workshop had a remarkable turnout with over 300 in attendance. The focus continued to be on how funding was allocated to departments and discussed topics related to funding strategies that ensure youth receive adequate services throughout the state.

TJJD would like to thank everyone who attended, and is looking forward to hosting these events again in 2019. For questions or more information, please contact the Juvenile Justice Training Academy at 512.490.7913.

PHOTO: Kaci Singer, Staff Attorney, presenting on Juvenile Records
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