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Maryland Raises Adult-Trial Age; Advocates Seek Reform

4/7/2026

Center

Maryland House Approves

The Maryland House of Delegates approved Senate Bill 323 by a 92-39 vote.
The bill raises the adult-trial age from 14 to 16, while allowing 14-year-olds and 15-year-olds to be charged as adults for serious offenses.
Advocates call it a first step toward reform.
In Assam, India, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emphasizes youth empowerment and flood mitigation ahead of elections.

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Governor Kelly's Legislation

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed House Bill 2524 to license foster homes when an 18-year-old resident has a felony conviction, addressing a policy that forced families to choose between children and foster care roles.
She signed House Bill 2320, enabling children in state custody to attend school districts.
House Bill 2237 authorizes recruitment bonuses for state agencies.
Together, the measures aim to improve welfare for Kansas children and families.

History

Historical Context

California's Proposition 57, passed in 2018, transformed juvenile justice by allowing youth offenders to be tried as juveniles, affecting over 1,000 cases annually. Maryland's recent approval of Senate Bill 323 mirrors this trend, advocating for rehabilitation over punishment. This shift reflects a growing recognition of developmental science in juvenile justice, potentially reshaping how states manage youth crime and support young offenders.

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Maryland House Approves

The Maryland House of Delegates approved Senate Bill 323 by a 92-39 vote.
The bill raises the adult-trial age from 14 to 16, while allowing 14-year-olds and 15-year-olds to be charged as adults for serious offenses.
Advocates call it a first step toward reform.
In Assam, India, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emphasizes youth empowerment and flood mitigation ahead of elections.

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