1. A. Sections 7302-7.1 through 7302-7.5 of this title shall be known and may be cited as the "Delinquency and Youth Gang Intervention and Deterrence Act".
2. B. The Legislature recognizes that the economic cost of crime to the state and communities continues to drain existing resources, and the cost to victims, both economic and psychological, is traumatic and tragic. The Legislature further recognizes that many adults in the criminal justice system were once delinquents in the juvenile justice system. The Legislature also recognizes that the most effective juvenile delinquency programs are programs that not only prevent children from entering the juvenile justice system, but also meet local community needs and have substantial community involvement and support. Therefore, it is the belief of the Legislature that one of the best investments of scarce resources available to combat crime is to counteract the negative social and economic factors that contribute to criminal and delinquent behavior by engaging youth, at an early age, in positive programs and opportunities at the local, neighborhood and community level.
3. C. For the purpose of reducing the likelihood of later involvement in criminal or delinquent activities, the intent of the Legislature in enacting the Delinquency and Youth Gang Intervention and Deterrence Act is to provide for school, school-related and after-school programs for children in grades 1 through 12, and their families, who live in at-risk school districts, neighborhoods and communities and to aid all communities in developing delinquency prevention and early intervention programs and activities.

Added by Laws 1994, HB 2640, c. 290, § 13, emerg. eff. July 1, 1994; Amended by Laws 1995, HB 1978, c. 352, § 102, emerg. eff. July 1, 1995; Renumbered from 10 O.S. § 1507.10 by Laws 1995, HB 1978, c. 352, § 199, emerg. eff. July 1, 1995.