In Pennsylvania, juveniles charged as adults may be housed in adult facilities. This is deeply concerning, as research shows that placing juveniles in adult facilities increases their risk of sexual victimization and significantly raises their likelihood of suicide compared to youth housed in juvenile facilities.
 
For this reason, we will be introducing legislation to ensure that juveniles are not housed with adults unless it is determined that they cannot be safely accommodated in a juvenile facility.
 
This legislation will help protect vulnerable youth and support their healthy development, as juvenile facilities are better equipped to provide age-appropriate services, education, and rehabilitative resources.
 
Please join us in supporting this legislation to enhance the safety of juveniles and promote more successful reentry outcomes.