This bill proposes to raise the minimum age for a child to be subject to juvenile delinquency proceedings from 10 to 12 years old. The amendment to 33 V.S.A. § 5102 defines a "child" as an individual who has allegedly committed an act of delinquency after reaching the age of 12 and before turning 22, with specific exceptions for serious offenses such as murder, which can still be prosecuted regardless of the child's age.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision stating that the act will take effect upon passage. This change aims to align the juvenile justice system with developmental understanding and to provide a more supportive approach for younger children who may engage in delinquent behavior.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 33-5102