Support for Minor Youth Act (p. 122)

• “A status offense is conduct that would not be a crime if committed by an adult. Status offenses do not threaten public safety, and their numerous potential and layered causes can be addressed by incorporating targeted services into existing youth and family support programs. Detaining youth in carceral systems, on the other hand, has negative effects on a youth’s physical and mental health, as well as their family and community. As such, states should consider eliminating status offenses entirely, or…address them by identifying the needs of youth and families and providing community-based support in addressing the underlying causes of this behavior.”