SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — State lawmakers could pass a plan this spring to address youth who are repeat gun offenders.

Advocates told lawmakers this week that the intersection of mental health and juvenile gun crimes is a complex and pressing issue that must be addressed.

This bill would require probation agencies to conduct an assessment of the minor’s needs and identify restorative justice programs for high risk youth, cognitive behavioral therapy, family engagement and mentoring options.

"I’ve been dealing with juvenile offenders for over 20 years, and I have seen the frequency and increase of the seriousness of juvenile crimes involving firearms," said Bishop Ronnie White from the Chicago Heights Police Department. "We’d like to address this by providing individual services."

House Bill 4091 passed unanimously out of the House Judiciary Criminal Committee Thursday night. The measure now moves to the house floor for further consideration. 

"Without this help and without the services that are provided through this legislation, the direction of their life is not going to be a positive one," said Rep. Anthony DeLuca (D-Chicago Heights). "We believe that we can help some kids with this version."

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