Regretfully, New York continues to be one of only two states that automatically prosecute 16 and 17 year olds as adults in the criminal justice system. Two recent Executive Orders by Governor Cuomo highlight the need for a comprehensive solution for New York. Now it’s time for the New York State Senate and Assembly to do what is right for our youth and what is needed to make our communities safer by raising the age in 2016.
Raise the age legislation was included in Governor Cuomo’s Executive Budget but we need to ensure the legislation stays in the budget. You can help.
1. Join us on Tuesday, March 8th for a lobby day in Albany.
This is an opportunity for youth and adults that care about them to speak with state lawmakers about raising the age of adult criminal responsibility in New York.
WCA will provide a free bus from White Plains and advocacy training. Update 2/19: Only 1 seat left on the bus to Albany.
Click here for more information about the lobby day or to RSVP to attend.
2. Ask elected officials to pass Raise the Age legislation.
If you can’t join us for the lobby day (and even if you can!), click here to tell your state legislators and the governor to pass comprehensive Raise the Age legislation this session.
Please share the letter with those in your network via email, Facebook, and Twitter using #RaiseTheAgeNY
