Dear Senator,

As a concerned citizen, I urge you to support House Bill 4630. This legislation represents a significant step forward in ensuring that all youth in our state receive the quality legal representation they deserve.

House Bill 4630 seeks to amend the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Act, building upon the impressive work already accomplished through the Justice for Kids and Communities package. Among its crucial components, House Bill 4630 was designed to extend indigent defense services to youth. Unfortunately, despite unanimous support from the Juvenile Justice Reform Task Force, this bill did not advance out of the Michigan State Senate.

The Task Force found that Michigan needs a centralized structure and has minimal statewide standards, support, or resources for juvenile public defense. The absence of statewide funding has led to uneven access to trained and qualified defenders for youth. Local systems appoint counsel at different stages, which can negatively affect the outcome of a youth’s case. Research has consistently shown that their constitutional rights may not be sufficiently protected without adequate defense.

This bill is a top priority for advocates and community members. In a 2024 statewide registered voter poll conducted by Marketing Resource Group, over 77% of respondents agreed that the Michigan State Legislature is responsible for passing this legislation. Additionally, 87% of individuals aged 18-34 support the passage of HB 4630.

I’m particularly encouraged by the following provisions in House Bill 4630:

• Addressing Racial Disparities: This bill plays a crucial role in addressing racial disparities in the juvenile justice system. The Juvenile Justice Reform Task Force found that Black youth are disproportionately represented throughout the juvenile justice continuum. Discrepancies in the appointment of counsel at various stages of proceedings compound these issues, potentially compromising the outcomes of youth cases. House Bill 4630 helps promote fairness and justice for all, regardless of race or background, by ensuring that all youth receive competent legal representation.

• Commitment to Youth Representation: The bill ensures that indigent youth have legal representation that meets constitutional standards from their initial court appearance. This is a critical advancement in safeguarding their rights and ensuring equitable treatment.

• Enhanced Standards and Oversight: The bill empowers the MIDC to develop and enforce standards for juvenile defense, promoting consistency and fairness in legal representation across the state.

Supporting this bill will make a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable youth. The Michigan State Senate has the opportunity to prevent wrongful adjudications, reduce recidivism, and promote the rehabilitation of our most vulnerable youth.

Please call for a vote on House Bill 4630 and vote to ensure juvenile defense services for children, youth, and families.