Us Congress Senate Bill SR871

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/25/24
• Refer: 9/25/24

Caption

A resolution expressing support for the designation of October 2024 as "National Youth Justice Action Month".

Impact

This resolution seeks to raise public awareness regarding the challenges faced by youth in the justice system. It points to significant research that shows young people prosecuted as adults are at a higher risk of reoffending compared to those who remain in juvenile systems. By designating a month to focus on youth justice issues, SR871 aims to mobilize communities towards initiatives that support rehabilitation and education, fostering a more supportive environment for at-risk youth.

Summary

Senate Resolution 871 expresses support for the designation of October 2024 as 'National Youth Justice Action Month'. The resolution underscores the importance of the juvenile court system as a means of rehabilitating youth rather than subjecting them to the punitive adult criminal justice system. It emphasizes that the juvenile court is tailored to meet the developmental needs of young people, contrasting with adult systems that may exacerbate recidivism and negatively impact future opportunities for youth.

Contention

While generally supportive in nature, the resolution acknowledges the ongoing challenges within youth justice systems, particularly regarding disparities faced by marginalized groups. These include youth of color, those with disabilities, and youth in foster care who are disproportionately represented in the justice system. There may be differing views on how effectively designating such a month will lead to substantive changes in policy or practice, especially regarding the most pressing issues facing youth in the legal system.