Michigan has now joined a vast majority of states to make 18 the age of adulthood in the criminal justice system. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation today.
Lawmakers say raising the age of who is automatically considered an adult from 17 to 18 is a step in the right direction. It’s part of ongoing, bipartisan efforts to make changes to the state’s criminal justice system.
Supporters say treating 17-year-olds as juveniles means they will get more specialized services. And lower their chances of reoffending.
Democratic Senator Sylvia Santana was a bill sponsor. She says the change will save taxpayers money in the long run. And that money can go toward other things, like education.
“That’s the forefront of what we need to do is educate individuals, not lock them up and throw away the key.”
For heinous crimes, prosecutor can choose to charge 17-year-olds as adults. The laws take effect in two years.