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Bill

A 2620

Relates to procedures required for the custodial interrogation of children

2025 Regular Session Introduced by George Alvarez and 61 co-sponsors

Bill A 2620 mandates legal counsel for minors during police interrogations, requires parental notification, and ensures recordings to protect children's rights and prevent coercion.

REFERRED TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 2620

Summary of Bill A 2620

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 2620
  • Title: Relates to procedures required for the custodial interrogation of children
  • Status: Referred to Children and Families
  • Introduced: January 21, 2025
  • Classification: Legislative Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2620 aims to establish specific procedures for the custodial interrogation of children. The intent is to ensure that the rights of minors are protected during police interrogations, thereby promoting fair treatment and preventing coercive practices that could lead to false confessions or wrongful convictions.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several important provisions regarding the interrogation of minors, including:

  • Mandatory Legal Representation: Children must have access to legal counsel before and during any custodial interrogation.
  • Parental Notification: Law enforcement is required to notify a parent or guardian prior to the interrogation of a child.
  • Recording Requirements: All custodial interrogations of minors must be recorded in their entirety to ensure transparency and accountability.
  • Age Considerations: The bill specifies different procedures based on the age of the child, recognizing that younger children may require additional protections.
  • Training for Law Enforcement: Police officers will be required to undergo training on the psychological and developmental differences of children to better understand how to conduct interrogations appropriately.

Affected Parties

The primary parties affected by this legislation include:

  • Children: Minors who are subject to custodial interrogation will benefit from enhanced protections and rights.
  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Police departments will need to adjust their interrogation protocols and provide training to officers.
  • Legal Representatives: Attorneys will play a crucial role in ensuring that children's rights are upheld during interrogations.

Legislative Timeline

The bill has undergone several legislative actions since its introduction:

  • January 21, 2025: Introduced and referred to the Committee on Children and Families.
  • March 25, 2025: Reported and referred to the Committee on Codes.
  • April 8, 2025: Reported and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
  • May 1, 2025: Amended and recommitted to Ways and Means.
  • May 20, 2025: Reported and referred to Rules.
  • May 21, 2025: Ordered to third reading and reported.
  • May 27, 2025: Passed Assembly and delivered to the Senate, where it was referred to the Committee on Children and Families.

Related Legislation

Bill A 2620 is connected to several prior-session bills that address similar issues, including:
- A 6982
- A 5891
- A 8923
- S 878 (companion bill in the Senate)

Conclusion

Bill A 2620 represents a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of children during custodial interrogations. By instituting clear procedures and protections, the bill aims to foster a more just legal process for minors, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are respected.

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

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