Connecticut Senate Bill SB01164

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Refer: 3/10/11

Caption

An Act Delaying Implementation Of Provisions To Raise The Age Of Juvenile Court Jurisdiction For Youth Seventeen Years Of Age.

Impact

The proposed delay in implementing the 'Raise-The-Age' provisions reflects concerns regarding the potential economic impact on state resources and municipal costs. By preventing the immediate application of expanded juvenile protections, the state aims to mitigate unforeseen expenses associated with housing, processing, and rehabilitating youth within the juvenile justice system. This bill acknowledges the financial ramifications that jurisdictions might face as they adjust to a potentially larger influx of cases if the age limit for juvenile court jurisdiction were to be raised as initially planned.

Summary

SB01164 is a legislative measure that seeks to delay the implementation of provisions in previous 'Raise-The-Age' legislation concerning the juvenile court jurisdiction for youth aged seventeen. Originally included in public act 09-7, these provisions were aimed at expanding juvenile court jurisdiction for this age group. By postponing these changes until July 1, 2014, the bill aims to alleviate immediate financial burdens on the state and local municipalities while allowing for further examination of the implications of such a policy shift.

Contention

While the bill appears to focus on fiscal responsibility, it raises important questions about the treatment of youth within the justice system. Advocates for the original 'Raise-The-Age' legislation argue that delaying its implementation may perpetuate negative outcomes for young individuals who would benefit from juvenile court protections. Opponents of the delay might view the bill as prioritizing cost-cutting measures over necessary reforms aimed at improving juvenile justice outcomes and fostering rehabilitation rather than punishment.