Westchester Children's Association Backs 'Raise the Age' Legislation

From the Westchester Children's Association:

WHITE PLAINS, NY -- As a member of the Raise the Age New York Campaign, Westchester Children’s Association (WCA) applauds the support from a majority, bi-partisan group of Westchester County Board of Legislators to “Raise the Age” of criminal responsibility from 16 to 18 years-old. Support for this important piece of legislation is growing.

Now, says WCA’s Deputy Director Allison Lake, “It’s time for the State Senate to join the Assembly and Governor in supporting common-sense legislation that treats juveniles in an age-appropriate way, which studies have shown reduce recidivism, improve outcomes and make our communities safer.”

WCA states that treating 16 and 17 year-olds as children, rather than adults, in the justice system will positively impact the lives of roughly 1,000 Westchester youth every single year. These reforms will provide the county’s youth with the rehabilitative, therapeutic and educational opportunities that will help them turn their lives around. With the right supports youth are less likely to recidivate, therefore making Westchester communities safer and giving young people the chance for a productive, engaged future.

For more information on the Raise the Age initiative, visit www.wca4kids.org.

Westchester Children's Association, established in 1914, is one of the oldest children's advocacy organizations in the United States. It has remained steadfast in its mission: to improve the lives of Westchester’s children by using data to understand their needs, shaping policies and programs to meet their needs, and educating and mobilizing voters to keep those needs at the top of the public agenda.

Photo: Allison Lake is Deputy Director of Westchester Children's Association.