This summer, South Dakota lawmakers are looking at a range of issues tied to the state's correctional system. That includes another dive into efforts to keep young people from being incarcerated. On Thursday, the Study Committee on Juvenile Justice holds its first hearing. South Dakota adopted reforms in 2015 meant to reduce youth detention rates. The overall numbers have decreased significantly, but panel members say there's still a need for certain improvements. Brookings County State's Attorney Dan Nelson will speak at the meeting about diversion programs in his jurisdiction.

A recent effort in Brookings County involved setting up a high school for youth with truancy issues. During the last legislative session, some lawmakers pushed to repeal provisions under the 2015 law amid complaints of behavior issues in schools. The committee chair acknowledges some types of offenses might draw more debate, but says the main approach is still to avoid incarceration.

The panel says issues like mental-health services also will be discussed. Nelson says he hopes lawmakers see that, while his area has the resources to offer alternative programs, others aren't as lucky.

He stresses his county's programs establish consequences that don't involve a jail cell. And when necessary, a young person who commits a violent offense goes through the court system. Statewide, there are persistent youth-detention disparities, especially among Native Americans. The committee expects to hold two additional meetings before submitting a report.