Dear Legislator,
I am emailing you today asking you to support HB23-1249, which would end the prosecution and detention of kids ages 10 to 12.
A Department of Education study showed that 43% of incarcerated youth receiving remedial education services in detention did not return to school after release, and another 16% enrolled in school but dropped out after only five months. Children at young ages who engage in age-typical behavior need to be services and supports in their own communities, not a jail cell.
The goal of HB23-1249 is to make communities safer and prevent the cycle of recidivism that evidence suggests happens after a child goes through the justice system. While rare, children raised in traumatic environments who are victims act out against others. This policy will hold the system accountable to ensure everyone, kids and victims alike, get the services they need and deserve.
Kids can and should be held accountable in a way that ensures they learn from their mistakes and prevents them from doing it again. Research proves that support outside the Juvenile Justice system is the most effective intervention.
Our youth are our future. They deserve every opportunity to become compassionate, healthy,and contributing members of our society. When we support kids in a way that sets them up for success, we are helping to create successful adults.
Please vote yes on HB23-1249
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Thank you.
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