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Bill

B 26-0401

Youth Records Transparency and Oversight Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Zachary Parker

DC bill increases transparency and oversight of youth justice records while establishing new access rules and agency accountability measures for handling juvenile documents.

Committee Mark-up of B26-0401 by the Youth Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · B 26-0401

Legislative bill overview

Bill B 26-0401 amends DC's youth records system to increase transparency and oversight of how juvenile court records, arrest records, and related documents are managed and accessed. The bill establishes new requirements for record-keeping, access protocols, and accountability measures for agencies handling youth records across the District.

Why is this important

Youth records can significantly impact a young person's future opportunities in education, employment, and housing, yet historically there has been limited public visibility into how these records are created, maintained, and shared. This legislation addresses concerns about inconsistent practices, potential errors in records, and unauthorized access while attempting to balance rehabilitation-focused juvenile justice principles with public safety and accountability.

Potential points of contention

  • Competing privacy interests: Expanded transparency could conflict with rehabilitation-focused juvenile justice philosophy that traditionally seals records to give youth a fresh start; advocates may worry disclosure harms reintegration
  • Law enforcement and school access: Different stakeholder groups disagree on who should access youth records and under what circumstances (schools need safety information vs. privacy advocates' concerns about surveillance and bias)
  • Implementation costs and capacity: New oversight requirements and record management protocols may impose significant administrative burdens and expenses on already-stretched public agencies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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