‘Raise the Age,’ Now Law in New York, Is Still a Subject of Debate

ALBANY — Much of the praise for the Raise the Age initiative, which was passed by the New York Legislature over the weekend, was effusive, with various political factions claiming it as their own victory and its supporters calling it a historic protection for juvenile defendants.

“Progress is taking some steps to help 16- and 17-year olds who run afoul of the law,” said Ms. Stewart-Cousins, who represents parts of Westchester County. “But progressive would be truly raising the age.”

One of its members who staunchly supported the bill, Senator Diane J. Savino of Staten Island, noted the role of Senator Velmanette Montgomery, who had first begun to push for the change in 2009

Ms. Montgomery said she believed the law could still allow some juveniles to end up in adult facilities. 

“We have not done everything I would have liked to have done, to have seen,” Ms. Montgomery said. “But at least we have changed the direction.”

To read the entire story, visit https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/10/nyregion/raise-the-age-new-york.html