Governor Cuomo’s Proposed Executive Budget would raise New York’s age of criminal responsibility (the age at which children can be prosecuted as adults). Currently New York is one of two states that automatically prosecutes 16- and 17-year olds as adults in the criminal justice system with zero exceptions, even for minor offenses.

Sign the petition to tell New York lawmakers that YOU support the Raise the Age legislation in this year’s Executive Budget. Tell Governor Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Skelos, Assembly Speaker Heastie, Senate IDC Leader Jeff Klein, Children and Families Chair Lupardo and Felder, Codes Chair Nozzolio and Lentol, and your representatives that you want them to RAISE THE AGE!

The current system also leaves parents in the dark. Under current law; 16- and 17-year olds can be arrested and held overnight for questioning without their parent being notified.  New York also 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 do not receive rehabilitation. And youth in the adult system can receive lifelong criminal records, forever impacting their employment, education and housing prospects- each of which are key to reducing recidivism.

We need your help today to ensure these critical reforms are passed by the New York State Legislature.

These vital reforms included in the governor’s proposed budget will provide age-appropriate services, target and reduce the causes of recidivism, and promote the safety of our communities.

The legislation must pass and include the following reforms:

1.) Ensure no youth under the age of 18 will be placed in adult jails or prisons, where they face severe risks of abuse and suicide.

2.) Raise the lower age of juvenile jurisdiction from 7 to 12 for all offenses but homicide. For homicide, the lower age would be 10.

3.) Move the bulk of cases of 16- and 17-year olds to Family Court. For youth charged with more serious crimes whose cases remain in adult criminal court, proceedings will occur in new Youth Parts with specially trained judges

4.) Increase alternatives to incarceration and expand services that are proven to reduce the likelihood of re-offending.

5.) Decrease barriers to education, employment, and housing for young people who have served their sentences.

Help us Raise The Age Now!