SENATOR TAYLOR introduced SB 51 (WORK CAMPS FOR JUVENILE OFFENDERS) and invited the sponsor, SENATOR RANDY PHILLIPS, to testify. Number 091 SENATOR PHILLIPS explained it was similar to legislation introduced by SENATOR VIRGINIA COLLINS in the last session. He explained the concept of a "work camp," which would be a residential facility set aside for use only by minors. These residents might be required to work on buildings and grounds, or perform other activities including education. SENATOR PHILLIPS explained his bill, SB 51, would authorize the Department of Health and Social Services to establish regulations for the operation of work camps and to place delinquent minors into work camps instead of another type of detention facility. SENATOR PHILLIPS said, further, the legislation provides that a municipal or non-profit corporation may maintain and operate a juvenile work camp under regulations to be adopted by the DHSS. He suggested that PAT O'BRIEN from DHSS testify on the legislation. MS. O'BRIEN testified in support of the bill, because she said it would give them an additional alternative type of program in which to place juveniles, who are adjudicated delinquent. SENATOR TAYLOR asked if it was similar to the programs known as the Outward Bound program. MS. O'BRIEN said it was a possible, and she described programs presently in existence in the State of Alaska today, as a component of residential child care facilities. She thought one of the main emphasis of the bill was the ability to have the juvenile work, to learn about the world of work ethic, perhaps, on a farm. SENATOR TAYLOR opened the meeting to testimony and invited SHERRIE GOLL, representing the Alaska Women's Lobby and KIDPAC, to speak. Number 147 MS. GOLL expressed the concerns of her clients that the work camp service was presently offered through the child care programs, which her clients feel are adequate. She didn't think the legislation was clear as to whether juveniles would be sent to the work camps from institutions such as the McLaughlin Youth Center or from less restrictive settings such as residential facilities. MS. GOLL discussed possible duplication of efforts in this effort, but she did support the Governor's bill for boot camps for first time offenders between the ages of 18 and 26. MS. GOLL was concerned both programs were planning to use the Pt. MacKenzie farm, but she felt it should only be just as an experimental farm to lessen the prison population. MS. GOLL discussed with SENATOR TAYLOR possible amendments to the bill to limit it to first time juvenile offenders for drug treatment and education. She reiterated their support for first time offenders but not for juveniles younger than 18.