In Brief
- Bill proposes phased expansion of juvenile jurisdiction to age 21.
- Supporters cite brain science and reduced recidivism data.
- Critics fear accountability loss, but serious crimes remain in adult court.
- Advocates argue juvenile system better supports education and public safety.
BOSTON — Is this the year that Massachusetts joins Vermont in swinging the doors of its Juvenile Court to a slightly older population?
Advocates, including several members of the legal community, hope so.
Sen. Brendan Crighton, D-Lynn, is the lead sponsor of S.1061, which would gradually raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction over a five-year period, first to 19, then 20, then 21. There is a companion bill in the House, H.1923, sponsored by Reps. James J. O’Day, D-Worcester, and Manny Cruz, D-Salem…