“The problem with Raise the Age is that currently it lets nearly every adolescent offender off without any consequences, which has led to a rising spike in crime, gang activity and drug offenses in our state. Without consequences, teenagers have become the new kingpin in a criminal underworld, but this system will ultimately leave them without any other choice than a career as a criminal. If Albany wants to provide a path forward, they should enact our new bill, because it will enable the non-violent youth offenders to have that path and get the help they need to choose a better life as an adult. However, our plan also fixes the broken, existing system and requires all violent, felony offenders to receive the punishment they deserve, and would require their records to be available – so that if they continue to choose a criminal path, these records would be accessible. Sadly, recidivism rates are high for these violent, felony offenders. But the choice will be theirs. In the meantime, New Yorkers have had enough of the endless cycle of violent crime disrupting their daily lives. Albany has an obligation to ensure public safety, and toward that goal must pass this reform measure.”