ICJ RESPONSE DURING CORONAVIRUS EMERGENCY

On Friday, March 13, 2020, President Trump declared a national state of emergency. As states respond to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Commission is also working to ensure appropriate responses to juveniles.

Updated Emergency Guidelines Policy

The Emergency Guidelines Policy was recently amended to provide more specific guidance for when a state of emergency affects states throughout the nation, including:

• Each state will follow their state’s guidelines and procedures for managing, locating, and supervising juveniles in the event of an emergency. States must continue to supervise juveniles without distinction from supervision of intra-state juveniles.
• In the event the emergency affects a majority of states, timeframes may be extended beyond the ICJ Rule-related timeframes with the approval from both ICJ offices. 
• If essential transportation services are unavailable or severely limited due to government-imposed travel restrictions, airport closures, and/or staff availability, alternative methods for transportation and supervision shall be considered. States shall work cooperatively to address each case on an individual basis.
• The safety, health, and well-being of all juveniles, families, victims, staff, and communities shall be considered when making decisions and determining next steps related to travel, transfers, and returns.  States shall collaborate and cooperate for the best of interest of juveniles, families, victims, and communities. 

CURRENT STATE RESTRICTIONS

The Commission will gather and share information regarding state-specific restrictions.

• Complete the brief, ONLINE FORM TO SUBMIT STATE-SPECIFIC INFORMATION regarding any restrictions or limitations that may impact ICJ operations.
• Additional submissions can be made as the situation changes using the same form link.

COLLABORATION & COMMUNICATION ARE ESSENTIAL

While COVID-19 may present novel challenges, the Interstate Commission for Juveniles will continue to focus on balancing the safety and well-being of the youth we serve, as well as those of their families, victims, and communities.  Members of the Commission have a history of demonstrating excellent collaboration and communications skills. We are grateful for your leadership and your continued commitment to serving. 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For additional resources related to COVID-19, please click here.