Bill Purpose:
Allows 17 year olds to be tried as adults if they commit a crime involving a firearm.
Bill Sponsor:
Hilferty (R)
Committee:
Criminal Justice
OPEN Comments:
This bill rolls back the Raise the Age campaign to have 17 year olds tried in juvenile courts. Rep. Hilferty expresses concern about the failure of the juvenile justice system to prevent youth from voilent crime, which is something OPEN also acknowledges. However, the reality of this bill is that it will result in sending more Black and Brown youth to prison for longer.
Link to Digest:
legis.la.gov
Current Status:
Pending House Administration of Criminal Justice
OPEN Position:
Oppose
Committee Hearing Date:
Pending — check back soon
Who’s Involved:
Constituents have expressed concern about increases in armed robberies. However, the Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights, who was in charge of the Raise the Age campaign, is likely to oppose this bill.
