Hochul’s new budget won’t change controversial Raise the Age law

Gov. Kathy Hochul has decided not to engage in a battle with the far-left faction of the Democratic Party by refraining from making changes to the controversial Raise the Age law. This law prevents 16 and 17-year-olds from being tried as adults, directing their cases to family court judges instead. Despite facing pressure from critics, including NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who argue that the law has led to an increase in violent crimes committed by teens, Hochul has chosen not to amend it in her upcoming executive budget release.

The Raise the Age law was signed by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in 2017 and has been a topic of debate ever since. Hochul had previously expressed a willingness to consider reforms to the law but has since remained silent on the issue. This decision comes at a time when the governor is facing challenges from lawmakers who are endorsing her Democratic primary challenger, far-left Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado.

One of the main concerns raised by critics of the law is the rise in crimes committed by teenagers, despite New York City experiencing historic drops in overall violent crime rates. However, Hochul’s decision not to amend the law is likely to face opposition from over 200 criminal justice groups that have already formed a coalition to defend Raise the Age.

Overall, Hochul’s decision to maintain the status quo with the Raise the Age law reflects her strategic approach in navigating the complex political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections. As she seeks re-election this year, the governor is treading carefully to avoid alienating different factions within the Democratic Party while also addressing concerns about public safety and criminal justice reform.