Research over the past 20+ years affirms that trying youth in adult court has a detrimental impact on community safety as well as on many 17-year-olds. Current Wisconsin law excludes all 17-year-olds from the juvenile court and the services available through that venue. Even if prosecutors and judges wanted to include a 17-year-old in an appropriate juvenile service or program, they are unable to do so. Researchers have studied how best to promote public safety and meet the needs of 17-year-olds in several different ways.
The 2023-25 State Budget Should Support Wisconsin Families Who Are Struggling to Get By
Economic hardship has a long-lasting negative impact on children—affecting their health and wellness over the course of their lives. Ensuring families can meet their basic needs should be a key goal for the 2023-25 state budget.