Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1163

Introduced
3/22/24  
Refer
3/22/24  

Caption

The age of juvenile court jurisdiction and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The proposed changes will affect various aspects of state law regarding juvenile justice. Under AB1163, individuals aged 17 will be treated as adults, meaning they will face adult penalties and have fewer opportunities for alternative rehabilitation approaches typically available in juvenile courts. This shift may also lead to increased burdens on the criminal justice system, as more individuals will be processed through adult courts, potentially affecting recidivism rates and the overall management of juvenile delinquency cases. Additionally, counties will see fiscal implications as they would no longer be responsible for funding certain juvenile services related to these individuals.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1163 proposes a significant change in the jurisdiction and treatment of individuals aged 17 involved in legal proceedings related to criminal laws, civil laws, and municipal ordinances. The bill seeks to raise the age from 17 to 18, thereby subjecting those previously categorized as juveniles to adult court processes and sentencing guidelines once they reach the age of 18. This legislative measure aligns with a growing trend to recognize the developmental capacities of youth and their potential for rehabilitation, acknowledging that individuals at 17 years may not be fully mature in terms of decision-making and behavior.

Contention

The bill has drawn a range of opinions from lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that treating 17-year-olds under the adult legal system will streamline processes and reinforce accountability for criminal behavior. Opponents, however, express concerns regarding the punitive implications these changes may have on youth, particularly in undermining the rehabilitative focus of the juvenile justice system. They warn that harsher penalties may not address the underlying issues that lead to juvenile delinquency, thus perpetuating cycles of crime without offering meaningful support or solutions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB1067

The age of juvenile court jurisdiction and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB50

State finances and appropriations, constituting the executive budget act of the 2025 legislature. (FE)

WI SB70

State finances and appropriations, constituting the executive budget act of the 2023 legislature. (FE)

WI SB1304

Juvenile court jurisdiction; age

WI SB889

Juveniles: Juvenile court jurisdiction.

WI HB134

Juvenile Law - Juvenile Court Jurisdiction - Age of Child

WI HB698

Juvenile Law - Juvenile Court Jurisdiction - Age of Child

WI SB792

Juvenile Law - Juvenile Justice Reform - Juvenile Court Jurisdiction

WI HB1433

Juvenile Court - Jurisdiction

WI SB422

Juvenile Court - Jurisdiction

Similar Bills

WI SB1067

The age of juvenile court jurisdiction and making an appropriation. (FE)

WV HB2673

To require a guilty verdict, before any property of any type are taken from an individual

HI SB2124

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI SB400

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI SB400

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI SB320

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI SB909

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI SB909

Relating To Property Forfeiture.