We must reimagine justice for New York’s youth so they can grow, learn, and contribute to their communities.
In 2017, New York State “raised the age,” allowing 16 and 17 year olds to be treated as children, rather than prosecuted as adults. Yet, far too many young people and emerging adults still face harsh prison sentences and the devastating consequences of a criminal conviction. The Youth Justice and Opportunities Act will protect the futures of young people up to age 25, enhance community well-being, and provide emerging adults the opportunity to move forward in their lives. This legislation strengthens and expands New York’s existing youthful offender law, ensuring that more young people under the age of 26 can move forward without the lifelong stigma of a criminal conviction. This is more than just legal reform; it is a commitment to racial justice, community health, and the belief that young people deserve the chance to fulfill their potential.
Why New York needs the Youth Justice & Opportunities Act:
The Youth Justice & Opportunities Act will:
By enacting the Youth Justice and Opportunities Act, New York can lead the nation in youth justice, creating safer communities and a brighter future for all.
Emerging adulthood is a critical developmental phase when decision-making abilities are still maturing. Yet, New York’s laws impose harsh sentences on young adults, ignoring their potential for growth and the community's role in supporting their development. The Youth Justice and Opportunities Act expands protections for those up to age 25, offering a pathway out of the criminal legal system and into productive adulthood.
A criminal conviction has far-reaching consequences—limiting education, employment, and housing opportunities. These effects disproportionately harm Black, Latinx, and other communities of color. The Youth Justice & Opportunities Act addresses these disparities by providing age-appropriate interventions that prioritize rehabilitation over punishment.
Passing the Youth Justice and Opportunities Act is about reimagining justice for our youth. It’s about recognizing that young people deserve support, opportunities, and the chance to build a future free from the barriers of a criminal record. By enacting the Youth Justice and Opportunities AcO, New York can lead the nation in youth justice, creating safer communities and a brighter future for all.
