Georgia Senator Attends NCSL Youth Justice Conference, Explores Community-Based Juvenile Justice Models

Sen. Chuck Payne (R–Dalton) recently attended the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Youth Site Visit on Community-Based Models in San Diego, California. The two-day event, which focused on community-based juvenile justice models, brought together legislators from across the country to explore innovative approaches for supporting and rehabilitating youth. Sen. Payne was one of 10 state legislators selected nationwide to participate.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, Sen. Payne has been a long-time advocate for juvenile justice reform. During the site visit, he engaged with programs from the David’s Harp Foundation, which supports youth through music, technology, and education, showcasing effective community-based interventions.

Sen. Payne remarked, “It was an honor to represent Georgia at this impactful event and to learn from the David’s Harp Foundation, which is doing extraordinary work with at-risk youth. I look forward to applying the lessons learned during the conference to continue making Georgia a safer, more supportive place for our youth. This experience only strengthens my commitment to juvenile justice reform and ensuring that every young person in our state has the opportunity to succeed.”

About Senator Chuck Payne

Sen. Chuck Payne serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military and Homeland Security. He represents the 54th Senate District, which includes Whitfield and Murray County, as well as part of Gordon County. He may be reached at 404.463.5402 or by email at chuck.payne@senate.ga.gov.