New York Lawmakers Prepare to Debate Changes to Raise the Age Law

UPDATE: New York lawmakers are gearing up for an urgent debate over the controversial Raise the Age law, which prevents youth offenders aged 16 and 17 from being tried as adults. As discussions intensify ahead of the 2024 legislative session, key officials, including newly appointed NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, are advocating for significant reforms to this 2017 law.

The Raise the Age legislation has become a focal point of contention in New York, with police and district attorneys calling for changes they argue are necessary to address rising crime rates among young offenders. Tisch, who strongly supports revising the law, stated at a recent panel, “The number of kids that are victims of shootings is up 83%. Since those laws changed, the number of kids that are shooters is up almost a hundred percent in that time.” Her remarks underscore the urgent need for lawmakers to respond to the growing concerns surrounding youth crime.

Discussions surrounding the law took place earlier this month at the annual SOMOS conference in Puerto Rico, attended by influential figures such as Bronx DA Darcel Clark and Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez. Clark has been vocal about the need to amend the Raise the Age policy since 2021, while Gonzalez’ office has remained tight-lipped on the private discussions held during the conference. Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, a staunch supporter of the original law, expressed concerns regarding any potential changes, asserting that the judicial discretion should remain intact for judges to make informed decisions on a case-by-case basis.

As Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani prepares to take office in January, he has confirmed that Tisch will continue as the city’s top cop, placing the reform of the Raise the Age law as a high priority. The urgency of the matter is compounded by the fact that the District Attorneys Association of the State of New York is pressuring the Legislature to act swiftly in the upcoming budget discussions.

“Attempts to change the law through the budget or through prosecutors who have not fully implemented Raise the Age are irresponsible and misguided,” stated Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, the chair of the state Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Legislative Caucus. The caucus has been advocating for increased funding to support localities in keeping young people out of prison rather than altering the law itself.

Governor Kathy Hochul has not yet publicly committed to a stance on proposed changes, but has previously indicated her willingness to review all laws as the legislative session approaches. As Hochul faces an upcoming re-election campaign against likely Republican nominee Rep. Elise Stefanik, the opinions of Tisch and various district attorneys could play a crucial role in shaping her position on criminal justice reform.

The ongoing negotiations reflect a complex landscape where public safety concerns clash with the rights and protections intended for youth offenders. As the legislative session draws near, stakeholders from all sides will continue to meet, aiming to find a balance that addresses rising crime rates while preserving the intent behind the Raise the Age law.

The outcomes of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for the future of juvenile justice in New York, making it a critical issue to watch in the coming months.