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Raise the Age

Improving the Way New York's Justice System Treats Young People

The FY 2018 Budget includes legislation to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 18 years of age. New York was previously one of only two states that automatically prosecuted 16- and 17-year-olds as adults. This injustice unfairly punished youth and prevented them from receiving the services they need to rehabilitate themselves and re-integrate into their communities. New York’s youth who commit non-violent crimes will now receive age-appropriate housing and programming to lower their risk of re-offense.

Raise the Age Implementation Task Force

A team of social service and law enforcement experts will evaluate state and local efforts to implement the groundbreaking Raise the Age law.

Task Force Final Report Task Force Members First Year Data

ADVANCING SOCIAL JUSTICE FOR NEW YORK’S YOUTH

Learn More About Raise the Age

Ask a Question Frequently Asked Questions Criminal Justice Statistics

Raise the Age

Age of Criminal Responsibility Raised to 18-years-old
All 16- and 17-year-olds who commit non-violent crimes will receive the intervention and evidence-based treatment they need.
Specialized Juvenile Detention Facilities
Rather than adult jails and prisons, young people will be placed in specialized juvenile detention facilities certified by the State Office of Children and Family Services, in conjunction with the State Commission of Correction.
Phased-In Implementation
The Raise the Age legislation will take effect for 16-year-olds on October 1, 2018 and 17-year-olds on October 1, 2019.

Raise the Age Guidance for Localities

Law Enforcement Memo Local Planning Guide Overview and Implementation

Progress

Regulations

OCFS Regulations SCOC Regulations

Financial Application

Letter to Counties Probation Department Guidance Planning Instrument

Raise the Age

Law enforcement, local leaders, and advocates express support for the Governor's plan to improve how New York's justice system treats young people.

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