A bill that would prohibit prosecuting California kids under 12 for crimes has advanced to Governor Jerry Brown’s desk for approval. Under the new law, instead of being prosecuted, children would be diverted to treatment and other diversionary programs.
We should note that there are some exceptions. Children under the age of 12 who commit murder, sexual assault and other violent crimes will still remain in the juvenile justice program.
If the bill is signed, California will join Massachusetts as the only states with the 12-year-old age limit. Governor Brown’s approval is no sure thing however. Prosecutors are adamantly opposed to the change.