New York is one of two states that automatically prosecutes 16- and 17-year-olds as adults in the criminal justice system- there are no exceptions. New York houses 16- and 17-year-olds in adult jails and prisons, where they face rape, sexual and physical abuse, are at elevated risk of suicide, and generally don't receive rehabilitation. These youth may receive lifelong criminal records, forever damaging their employment, education and housing prospects, and increasing recidivism. And the parents of 16- and 17-year-olds have no right to be notified if their children are arrested and interrogated by the police. The New York State legislature included $135 million in the budget to address this issue, but accompanying legislation is required.

We need you to contact your elected officials, urging them to pass comprehensive “raise the age” legislation before NY's legislative session ends in June. If we are successful, these vital reforms will get kids out of adult jails and prisons, allow kids opportunities to receive age-appropriate services and effectively re-enter society, and reduce crime.