06/10/2026
A new and controversial law in Minnesota goes into effect on August 1, 2026, which precludes the criminal prosecution of minors under the age of thirteen. Historically, those minors who commit criminal offenses would be charged with delinquency petitions and adjudicated through juvenile court. With the change in the law, juveniles under age 13 will instead be deferred to social services agencies for corrective programs without going through the traditional criminal justice process.
Opinions on this change are mixed. Some believe this will help troubled teens who are headed down the wrong path to more quickly obtain the services they need to help steer them in the right direction. Others, however, have significant concerns over young teens who commit violent crimes, and how to arrange for appropriate housing and adequate security.
Many members of the public consider this to be a bad move and will result in an increased public safety risk. Indeed, some social services agencies are requesting that an exception be made for juveniles in the 10-12 age range who are accused of committing violent crimes. Those opponents prefer to keep those violent offenders in the juvenile justice system. The Minnesota Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee is asking the state to slow down so more research can be completed to ensure that appropriate services are in place. It should be noted that this law was actually passed two years ago, and yet, it appears that at least some social services agencies still aren't fully prepared for the change.
We will have to see what, if any, changes are made prior to August 1st effective date of the change.
