The Interstate Commission for Juveniles (ICJ) held its Annual Business Meeting on September 1–2, 2026, in Portland, Maine. The annual meeting brings member states together for training, collaboration, and information sharing.

A key focus this year was the return of non-delinquent runaway youth under the ICJ and how jurisdictions can best serve this population. As part of the “Stronger Together: Partner Perspectives in Action” training series, representatives from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), National Runaway Safeline, and National Children’s Advocacy Center shared resources and best practices to support youth and strengthen the return process.

During the Annual Business Meeting, the Commission also held elections for Officer and Regional Representative positions. Abbie Christian, who serves as the Nebraska ICJ Commissioner, was elected to a two-year term as the Midwest Regional Representative. In this role, Regional Representatives chair region meetings, facilitate collaboration and problem-solving around ICJ challenges and barriers, and ensure members have opportunities to participate in the decision-making process.

As part of her duties as the Midwest Regional Representative, Abbie will also serve on the ICJ Executive Committee, which is empowered to act on behalf of the Commission when the full Commission is not in session. The Executive Committee oversees key functions, including financial management, strategic planning, and enforcement and compliance activities. Abbie’s service on the Executive Committee provides Nebraska with a direct voice in high-level decisions affecting the administration and day-to-day operations of the Compact. 

For questions or concerns regarding ICJ matters, please contact Nebraska ICJ Commissioner Abbie Christian at (402) 326-6142 or abbie.christian@nejudicial.gov.

Photo: Abbie Christian sworn in as ICJ Midwest Regional Representative