New Testimony Calls for Reducing Youth Confinement to Improve Mental Health Outcomes
The Sentencing Project's Josh Rovner will testify before the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights at a public briefing examining mental health care in juvenile justice facilities.
Related to: Youth Justice
[WASHINGTON, D.C.] — On Friday, June 12, 2026, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights will convene a public briefing examining mental health care in juvenile justice facilities, including civil rights implications, access, and racial disparities. Josh Rovner, senior research analyst at The Sentencing Project will testify during Panel 4: Community Advocates and System Stakeholders between 1:45–2:50 PM ET. Rovner’s testimony will focus on the intersection of youth mental health, systemic inequities, and policy solutions that prioritize accountability and community-based alternatives to incarceration.
Media is invited to speak with Josh Rovner in advance of his panel at 1:45 PM ET to discuss:
- The state of mental health care in juvenile justice systems
- Policy reforms to reduce harm and improve outcomes for youth in the justice system
If you’re interested in speaking with Mr. Rovner or learning more about The Sentencing Project’s research and recommendations on youth justice reform policy, please email janessa@merakicommsgroup.com.
WHAT: U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Public Briefing on Mental Health in Juvenile Justice Facilities: Civil Rights Implications, Access, and Racial Disparities
WHEN: Friday, June 12, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:50 PM ET
Panel 4 (Rovner Testimony): 1:45 PM – 2:50 PM ET
WHERE:
U.S. Commission on Civil Rights
1331 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Suite 1150
Washington, D.C.
The briefing will also be livestreamed on the Commission’s YouTube page.
