SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois could soon raise the minimum detainment age for minors from 10 to 13 years old. Democrats believe raising the detention age can give young people a fair chance and prevent early criminalization.
A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk would change the detainment age from 10 to 12 years old in 2026 and then to 13 years old in 2027. There would be a carveout for intense crimes like murder, aggravated sexual assault and aggravated vehicular hijacking.
"The bill allows for a year to develop the final planning for implementation, building on the great work that has already been done throughout the years by the Juvenile Justice Commission," said Rep. Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago). "Most importantly, this planning phase will create accountability to address service shortfalls throughout the state where identified."
Probation and court services would document and share monthly any instance where alternatives to detention failed or were lacking, including the basis for detention, providers contacted, and the reason alternatives were rejected, lacking, or denied.
Minors under 13 may be held accountable through a community mediation program or other court-ordered intervention services.
"We're going to improve the system, and I'm willing to work with folks on the other side of the aisle to make sure that everybody has good, comfortable services that give dignity to our young people," said Sen. Robert Peters (D-Chicago).
The plan also calls for a youth nonviolent crime resource program, where the state would provide mentoring, educational resources, employment opportunities and behavioral health services.
"Local circuit courts and probation departments are allowed to refer youth to the program," said Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis). "I'm just envisioning a situation where a youth is found delinquent by the court and, as part of probation, is referred to the program."
The legislation would create a child-first reform task force as well. This group would review and study the necessity of juvenile detention centers, complaints that arise within the facilities and community-based alternatives.
House Bill 3492 passed out of the Senate on a 37-18 vote and received a 66-39 vote in the House.
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