SB515 Relative to judicial determinations related to children placed in a qualified residential treatment program in certain juvenile matters and appointment of counsel in certain circumstances.
Relative to judicial determinations related to children placed in a qualified residential treatment program in certain juvenile matters and appointment of counsel in certain circumstances.
Impact Score — How Does This Bill Affect You?
Overall Impact Score
Mixed
Scale: 1 (harmful) to 10 (beneficial)
Your Wallet
Appointing counsel adds legal costs but proper judicial review can prevent inappropriate and expensive residential placements.
Your Community
Protects children in the juvenile system by ensuring judicial oversight of residential treatment placements and legal representation, preventing inappropriate or prolonged institutional care.
Your Freedom
Strengthens due process rights for children facing placement in residential treatment facilities, ensuring judicial review and legal counsel protect their liberty interests.
Status
III. Remainder Effective 08/04/2026
Sponsor
Patrick Long (D)
The Short Version
Establishes judicial oversight requirements for children placed in residential treatment programs and ensures appointment of legal counsel in certain juvenile proceedings. Adds protections for vulnerable youth in the system.
Who's Behind This Bill?
Who Benefits
- ▲ Children in the juvenile system
- ▲ Families navigating juvenile court
- ▲ Due process and children's rights advocates
Who Pays the Price
- ▼ State budget for appointed counsel costs
- ▼ Residential treatment facilities facing more oversight
Bill statuses as of May 2026. Check LegiScan or NH General Court for the latest.
This bill was auto-scored using AI analysis of the bill text and legislative data. Scores may be refined as we review more bills.