Louisiana House Bill HR6

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/16
• Passed: 3/15/16

Caption

Recognizes Wednesday, April 6, 2016, as Youth Justice Day

Impact

The resolution intends to draw attention to Louisiana's current standing as one of nine states that automatically charge all seventeen-year-olds as adults. Supporters argue that raising this age would align legal practices with the reality that seventeen-year-olds, who cannot vote or serve on juries, should not face adult charges. Furthermore, it aims to protect young people from the risks associated with adult incarceration, such as increased exposure to violence and abuse, ultimately reducing the chances of them entering a cycle of crime and poverty. The resolution highlights the importance of parental involvement in juvenile court proceedings, advocating for reforms that would allow parents to have a say in their children's legal matters.

Summary

House Resolution 6 (HR6) recognizes April 6, 2016, as Louisiana Youth Justice Day to support advocacy for juvenile justice reform. The resolution is championed by the Louisiana Youth Justice Coalition and encourages youth advocacy by inviting students from various schools to engage with the legislative process. On this day, students gather at the state capitol to express their desire for significant changes, notably raising the age at which a child can be prosecuted as an adult from seventeen to eighteen. This marks an effort to align state practices with protecting the rights of juveniles and fostering a rehabilitative rather than punitive approach to youth involvement in the justice system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR6 appears to be positive among youth advocates and reform supporters who see it as a necessary step towards a more equitable legal system for children. Those involved in the juvenile justice reform movement view the resolution as a crucial opportunity for students to engage civically and demand justice reform. However, there may be contention about the legislative changes proposed for prosecuting minors, with concerns from some sectors regarding the potential implications of raising the age on crime rates and judicial resources.

Contention

While HR6 itself does not directly change state laws, it lays the groundwork for future legislative action regarding judicial processes for youth. The conversation around raising the criminal responsibility age highlights a division in public sentiment and policy, focusing on the balance between accountability and rehabilitation. The discussions surrounding the resolution emphasize the need for comprehensive reform in juvenile justice to ensure that young individuals are treated with the understanding and care that recognizes their developmental stage.