Juvenile justice continues to be on the minds of researchers and analysts as the 2024 legislative session approaches.
According to the Maryland Department of Legislative Services (DLS), juvenile crime is likely to be addressed during the upcoming legislative session. As covered previously on the Conduit Street blog, juvenile crime prevention and accountability measures have been common topics of discussion for lawmakers during the 2023 legislative interim. The Judiciary Committee in the Maryland House of Delegates, under the guidance of Chairman Luke Clippinger, has held three recent emergency hearings on the topic this fall, while the Maryland Senate plans to hold briefings as well.
From the DLS report:
During the 2024 legislative session, the General Assembly may consider whether any modifications to recently enacted juvenile laws are warranted. Due to the increase in carjackings, automobile thefts, and handgun violations, legislation addressing those specific offenses may also be proposed. Bills to provide greater oversight of DJS and expand available services for juvenile justice‐involved youth are also possible.
Earlier this year WJLA news reported that leaders in the Maryland Senate were considering changes to juvenile justice reform laws as the conversation around juvenile crime continued. The Chairman of the Judicial Proceedings Committee, Senator William Smith, will be looking specifically at laws that specify which types of crimes children under the age of thirteen can be charged.
From the article:
"If you're under 13, you can still be arrested for a crime of violence. But other offenses that are not characterized as a crime of violence are also very serious and I think maybe it's time to look at those crimes," said Smith.
Other priorities for Senator Smith were consistent with the DLS report, including addressing issues with processes and procedures at the State Department of Juvenile Services, where youth offenders are intended to receive services and restorative programing.
Counties considered a juvenile justice initiative during the 2023 legislative interim to address shared concerns of local leaders around the state. The types of crimes young people are commiting at higher rates in particular, were cited in the DLS issue paper:
Regardless, with significant reported increases in offenses such as handgun violations and carjackings, legislation related to juvenile crime is likely to be considered in the 2024 legislative session.
MACo will look to support practical initiatives that encourage better long-term outcomes as well as accountability for justice-involved youth.
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