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SB 935

Juveniles: criminal procedure; raise the age fund; eliminate. Repeals sec. 117i of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.117i).

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Sarah Anthony

SB 935 repeals Michigan's Raise the Age Fund, eliminating dedicated funding for juvenile justice programs serving 17-year-olds previously tried as adults.

ASSIGNED PA 0143'24
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Bill Summary · SB 935

Legislative bill overview

SB 935 repeals Section 117i of the 1939 Public Assistance Act (MCL 400.117i), which established the "Raise the Age Fund" in Michigan. This fund was created to support implementation of the state's "Raise the Age" law—legislation that moved the processing of 17-year-olds from the adult criminal justice system to the juvenile justice system. The repeal eliminates the dedicated funding mechanism for this program.

Why is this important

Michigan's "Raise the Age" law was a significant criminal justice reform that treats older teenagers as juveniles rather than adults in the court system, with implications for rehabilitation versus incarceration approaches. Eliminating the dedicated fund potentially affects the state's ability to adequately resource juvenile justice programs, staff, and services that were designed to handle the increased caseload from raising the age threshold. This creates uncertainty about ongoing financial support for implementation of a major policy shift.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding implications: Repealing the dedicated fund doesn't necessarily eliminate the obligation to serve 17-year-olds in the juvenile system; it may shift costs to general appropriations or leave programs underfunded
  • Program continuity: Without a dedicated revenue source, juvenile justice agencies may face resource constraints affecting rehabilitation services, court operations, and detention facilities
  • Policy reversal concerns: Some view this as undermining the intent of "Raise the Age" reform, while supporters may argue the general budget can adequately fund these services without a separate mechanism

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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