As we close another productive year at the Interstate Commission for Juveniles (the Commission), I want to take this opportunity to reflect on our shared progress and continued commitment to promote public safety, victims’ rights, and juvenile accountability that is balanced with safeguarding those juveniles in a fair and equitable way.

Over the past year, the Commission remained steadfast in its mission to preserve child welfare and promote public safety. In collaboration with member States, we worked diligently to advance the Commission’s Strategic Plan by:

• improving the Uniform Nationwide Interstate Tracking for Youth (UNITY) data system;

• addressing gaps in ICJ Rules and resources;

• promoting leadership development and racial justice; and

• leveraging relationships to promote awareness and improve outcomes.

This year, we convened the Work Group on Returning Non-Delinquent Youths, and enhanced partnerships with the National Runaway Safeline, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators.

The Commission advances our shared mission through committees comprised of state ICJ personnel and ex officio members, with the support of the ICJ National Office.

• The Executive Committee, comprised of committee chairs and regional representatives, oversaw the administration of the compact and ensured compliance with requirements.

• The Rules Committee worked diligently to assess and improve the ICJ Rules. Recently adopted amendments will take effect on April 1, 2026.

• The Information Technology Committee created new reports using Tableau that help ICJ offices track cases and implemented multi-factor authentication in UNITY to bolster security.

• The Compliance Committee developed proactive monitoring dashboards so states can easily their track progress and prepared to reinstate the Performance Measurement Assessment.

• The Training, Education, and Public Relations Committee continued to assist ICJ Offices in educating local, state, and national partners.

• The Racial Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee worked to ensure racial diversity and equitable outcomes for all people impacted by the Compact.

• The Finance Committee provided fiscal oversight to ensure appropriate funding for these activities and the Commission’s future.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to innovation, transparency, and collaboration. None of these achievements would be possible without the dedication of our commissioners, state compact offices, and valued stakeholders.

Your ongoing support and engagement are vital to the success of our mission. We look forward to building upon our shared successes in the year ahead.

With appreciation,
/s/ Howard Wykes, Commission Chair