As I look back over the last year, I am amazed and humbled by the sheer volume of what we have collectively accomplished. Through the work, passion, and commitment of many, we continue to produce and sustain uncommon results.

Reflecting on ICJ’s past, present, and future, we celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the revised Interstate Compact for Juveniles (ICJ) at the Annual Business Meeting in New Orleans. This meeting provided an excellent foundation for a year of intense growth, analysis, and planning.

Throughout Fiscal Year 2019, the Commission worked diligently through its committees to complete the four strategic initiatives established for 2016-2019. Because collaboration is essential, 84 meetings were conducted for committees, regions, work teams, and others. Highlights of FY 2019 activities are discussed throughout this report, including: publication of “Key Concepts in Human Trafficking"; development of a Mentoring Program Policy; and presentations at a wide variety of national and state-level conferences.

In the area of technology, the Commission had an extremely productive year. In collaboration with SEARCH (the National Consortium on Justice Information and Statistics), the Information Technology Committee analyzed our current technology and future needs. With representatives from each region, a dedicated “RFP Team" conducted an intensive nine-month process of reviewing technology and proposals for a new nationwide data system. Based on their recommendation, a vendor has been selected to develop a new system, which will be introduced in Fall 2020.

To fulfill the Commission’s rulemaking responsibilities, the Rules Committee worked collectively to ensure a thorough review of proposals submitted by multiple committees and regions. Consequently, 15 proposed amendments will be presented for the Commission’s consideration at the 2019 Annual Business Meeting in Indianapolis, IN.

To promote public safety, victims’ rights, and juvenile accountability, the Commission conducted performance measurement assessments and provided related technical assistance. The Commission also carefully analyzed and updated multiple compliance related-tools and policies to ensure emphasis on issues most likely to impact juveniles and communities.

To ensure continued success in the future, the Commission also created a new Strategic Plan for 2020–2022, which will focus our collective energies on 4 priorities and 10 initiatives. The new Strategic Plan is available online at https://www.juvenilecompact.org/about/strategic-plan.

It has truly been an honor to serve as the Commission’s Chairperson during FY 2019. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to work with such incredible people from across the country. Our accomplishments and continued success are a direct result of your dedication and commitment.

Respectfully submitted,

/s/ Anne Connor, Chair