Kathy Hochul ‘willing’ to consider Raise the Age reforms as she takes victory lap on discovery tweaks

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced this week that changes to the state’s criminal evidence discovery rules are set to take effect. Hochul emphasized the importance of these changes in preventing cases from being dismissed on technicalities due to reforms implemented in 2019 by former Governor Andrew Cuomo and the state legislature.

While Hochul is not looking to spark controversy over the “Raise the Age” reforms, which raised the age of adult criminal responsibility from 16 to 18, she has indicated that she is open to discussing potential changes to the law. Hochul, who is up for re-election in 2026, highlighted the need for justice for victims and expressed her commitment to addressing any issues that may arise.

The Governor received support from five New York City district attorneys, including Alvin Bragg, Darcel Clark, Eric Gonzalez, Melinda Katz, and Michael McMahon, in pushing for these changes to the criminal evidence discovery rules.

Law enforcement officials and some Democratic politicians are now calling for revisions to the Raise the Age law. This law, signed by Cuomo in 2017, directs 16 and 17-year-old offenders to have their cases heard by family court judges, even in serious felonies such as murder. The goal of the reforms was to provide resources for youth offenders to prevent them from becoming repeat offenders.

However, concerns have been raised about the allocation of funds for alternative programs and the effectiveness of the current system. Hochul acknowledged the need to address these issues and ensure that resources are reaching youth offenders in a timely manner.

Following a recent incident in Albany where 10 people were shot, including one fatality, during a fireworks display, calls have intensified for a review of the Raise the Age law. Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan and Police Chief Brendan Cox criticized the law in a press conference, emphasizing the need to address violent crimes committed by young offenders.

Albany District Attorney Lee Kindlon, a Democrat and former defense attorney, has also voiced support for reevaluating the Raise the Age statute to better address public safety concerns.

As discussions continue on potential changes to the Raise the Age law, Governor Hochul remains committed to ensuring justice for victims and addressing the challenges faced in the criminal justice system.