As a parent of a 12-year-old child struggling with multiple mental health issues such as ODD, PTSD, Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED), Conduct Disorder, and ADHD, I am witnessing firsthand the challenges and shortcomings in our system that fail to adequately support these minors. My son's violent and aggressive behavior towards me and damage to our home and property are examples of the severity of his disorders. Alarmingly, I have found that law enforcement is often unable to intervene in these critical situations due to existing laws for minors.

Our current laws give a child the right to consent to mental health treatment at such a young age, yet this decision is often far too complex and overwhelming for someone dealing with significant mental health issues to make. Furthermore, the lack of adequate programs for our youth to guide them towards a healthier path and instill discipline compounds the problem. Simultaneously, our juvenile justice system appears to brush aside the malicious acts of minors under 12, instead of implementing measures that could aid in their rehabilitation.

This dual problem — of inadequately managing mental health among our minors and the corresponding juvenile justice system failing to effectively advocate for these youngsters — needs urgent attention. By reforming these laws, we can offer parents the ability to choose the best mental health treatments for their children, hold young offenders accountable, and initiate programs that set them on a better path, ultimately contributing to the positive growth of our society.

Join us in advocating for law reform that will comprehensively address a child's mental health, parental rights, and the tackling of harmful behaviors among our youth. Your signature can help ensure that no other parents and children have to endure the distressing circumstances I have been living. Sign today to reform our outdated laws.