New York Governor Kathy Hochul Maintains "Raise the Age" Law in Budget Proposal

In her proposed $260 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has decided not to make any changes to the state's "Raise the Age" law, which prevents 16- and 17-year-olds from being tried as adults for most non-felonies. Hochul defended her decision by stating, “We got them done,” referring to previous criminal justice reforms and asserting that there is no need to revisit these laws. This stance has drawn criticism from various law enforcement officials and prosecutors who argue that the law has contributed to rising youth violence.

Hochul shies away from rolling back criminal justice reforms like Raise the Age, boasting NYS ‘got them done’Hochul leaves Raise the Age as-is in budget proposal

Critics, including Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly, have expressed concerns that the "Raise the Age" law requires reevaluation. Donnelly emphasized that the law has shown limitations and inconsistencies in its application since its enactment in 2019. The District Attorneys Association of the State of New York has called for public hearings to discuss potential adjustments to the law, highlighting the need for a thorough examination of its impact on youth services and crime prevention.

Hochul shies away from rolling back criminal justice reforms like Raise the Age, boasting NYS ‘got them done’

Conversely, many progressives and advocacy groups, such as The Coalition to Protect Raise the Age, argue that the focus should not be on rolling back the law but rather on utilizing the $1 billion in unspent funds designated for programs aimed at preventing youth crime. They assert that prosecuting adolescents in the adult criminal justice system is ineffective and does not enhance community safety. Advocates have praised Hochul for maintaining the law, viewing it as a reflection of the understanding that adolescents are children who require different treatment within the justice system.

Hochul shies away from rolling back criminal justice reforms like Raise the Age, boasting NYS ‘got them done’

Hochul's decision to leave the "Raise the Age" law unchanged appears to be a strategic move to avoid legislative conflict in an election year. While she has previously indicated a willingness to adjust laws during budget negotiations, her current proposal suggests a focus on fully implementing existing laws rather than revising them. Hochul has hinted that the budget discussions, which are expected to continue until the April 1 deadline, may still include unexpected policy items.

Hochul leaves Raise the Age as-is in budget proposal

The debate surrounding the "Raise the Age" law illustrates a significant divide in perspectives on youth crime policy in New York. While law enforcement officials and some prosecutors advocate for revisions to address perceived shortcomings, many advocates and progressive lawmakers emphasize the importance of maintaining the law and improving funding for supportive programs. This ongoing discourse reflects broader tensions in criminal justice reform and public safety strategies within the state.

Hochul shies away from rolling back criminal justice reforms like Raise the Age, boasting NYS ‘got them done’

• “When Raise the Age was enacted, the original sponsors acknowledged that the law should be revisited and that adjustments might need to be considered at a future date,” — Mary Pat Donnelly, Rensselaer County District Attorney

Hochul shies away from rolling back criminal justice reforms like Raise the Age, boasting NYS ‘got them done’

• “Raise the Age reflects what we know to be true: adolescents are children, and prosecuting and placing them in the adult criminal justice system does not work for young people or make communities safer,” — The Coalition to Protect Raise the Age

Hochul shies away from rolling back criminal justice reforms like Raise the Age, boasting NYS ‘got them done’