On behalf of the Tulare County Board of Supervisors, I write to request your veto of AB 505 (Ting) which adds
ambiguity and barriers to the planning process as counties look to build out the responses necessary to implement critical services to youth at the higher end of the system upon the state closing DJJ.
Counties remain consistent throughout DJJ realignment discussions, that a fiscal structure with certainty and
protections is needed to assure adequate and sustainable funding over the long-term. AB 505 makes unclear
changes to the interplay between its provisions that establish a new co-chair model, how local plans are developed, the State's review and approval of the plan, and the OYCR's ability to deny the plan if deemed not to have met the requirements. Altering how local planning process requirements are met mid-stream is an extreme and unjustified hardship on counties that have been working in good faith since the passing of SB 823 just three years ago.
Tulare County is fully invested in a strong, vibrant, and responsive juvenile justice system that produces improved, sustainable, and positive outcomes for system-involved youth. As counties are now responsible for the entirety of the juvenile justice system pursuant to SB 823 it is imperative that county authority and responsibility remain connected to ensure the system can respond appropriately - AB 505 impedes county efforts in this regard.
Your veto of AB 505 will demonstrate the administration 's leadership and commitment to set and maintain policy frameworks that counties can devote our time and resources to implement in confidence.
Sincerely,
Dennis Townsend, Chairman
Tulare County Board of Supervisors
cc: Governor Newsom, Assembly Member Ting, Shaw Yoder Antwih Schmelzer & Lange