Raleigh, North Carolina — North Carolina’s ‘Raise the Age’ bill was initially passed in 2019 with the goal of reducing recidivism among the state’s kids.
Under the law’s basic framework, 16- and 17-year-olds could be charged in adult court based on the gravity of the crime, but the procedure could be lengthy.
The North Carolina Assembly amended the legislation in June, requiring all 16- and 17-year-olds who commit Class A through E felonies to be tried as adults immediately. Governor Roy Cooper vetoed the amendment, but it was overridden by the Assembly.
The new amendment enters into effect on Monday, December 1.
The amendment also makes the following changes:
- 16- and 17-year-olds who were previously tried as adults might have their cases moved to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.
- 16- and 17-year-olds who were charged with a Class F through I felony or non-motor vehicle misdemeanor offenses will still be under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.
- 13-, 14- and 15-year-olds who were tried as adults might have their cases moved to juvenile court.