New York Lawmakers Push for Urgent Reform of Raise the Age Law

UPDATE: New York lawmakers are gearing up for an intense debate over the future of the Raise the Age law, a controversial 2017 policy that prevents youth offenders from being tried as adults. This urgent discussion is set to unfold in the upcoming legislative session, as key figures push for reform.

The Raise the Age law shifted the age of criminal responsibility to 18, moving 16- and 17-year-olds out of adult court. However, mounting pressure from law enforcement and district attorneys calls into question the effectiveness of this policy. Newly appointed NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated, “Though I believe that the law was well-intentioned, we need now to roll up our sleeves and make adjustments based on the realities we are seeing on the ground.”

This urgent movement gained traction during the recent SOMOS conference in Puerto Rico, where notable discussions included input from Bronx DA Darcel Clark and Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez. Clark has advocated for amending the law since 2021, while Gonzalez’s office has chosen to remain silent on recent talks.

Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, a staunch supporter of the Raise the Age initiative, expressed concern over proposed changes, emphasizing the importance of judicial discretion. “Hopefully we will continue to allow judges the discretion they need to make the best decisions,” she stated. The debate highlights a critical divide among lawmakers regarding the balance between protecting youth and addressing public safety.

As New York City prepares for a leadership transition, Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has pledged to retain Tisch when he takes office in January 2024. Tisch has made reforming the Raise the Age law her top priority, citing alarming statistics: “The number of kids that are victims of shootings is up 83%. Since those laws changed, the number of kids that are shooters is up almost 100%,” she remarked, underscoring the urgent need for legislative change.

The District Attorneys Association of the State of New York (DAASNY) is also advocating for amendments. DAASNY President Mary Pat Donnelly highlighted the complications arising from current policies, asserting, “We need to be able to look at the offender’s history… We need the ability to know what’s going on in family courts.” This statement points to a growing demand for transparency and accountability in handling youth cases.

While Tisch and DA leaders seek to tweak the law, they agree that 16- and 17-year-olds should not face adult prison sentences. Walker, however, warned against undermining the judicial process, arguing that decisions should remain with judges rather than being dictated by legislative changes.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has not publicly taken a definitive stance on these proposed changes. Her office referred to previous comments, indicating she will reevaluate all laws as the legislative session approaches. Hochul, who is preparing for a challenging re-election campaign against likely Republican nominee Rep. Elise Stefanik, may find herself swayed by the arguments presented by Tisch and district attorneys.

Amidst this backdrop, members of the state Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Legislative Caucus are advocating for a comprehensive approach to youth crime. They propose focusing on fiscal challenges and supporting community programs rather than altering the Raise the Age law. Caucus chair Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages emphasized the need for funding and resources to keep young people out of prison, stating, “Attempts to change the law through the budget… are irresponsible and misguided.”

The conversation around Raise the Age continues to evolve, with critical meetings and discussions scheduled in the coming weeks. As pressure mounts from law enforcement and district attorneys, the fate of this law remains uncertain. Stakeholders urge a thoughtful and data-driven approach to ensure the safety and well-being of New York’s youth.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as lawmakers prepare for crucial discussions that could reshape the state’s juvenile justice system.