Bill > HB1381

This bill modifies the definition of a "delinquent child" in Pennsylvania's juvenile justice law by changing the minimum age from ten to thirteen years old. Currently, the law defines a delinquent child as someone ten years or older who has been found by the court to have committed a delinquent act and requires treatment, supervision, or rehabilitation. The bill raises this threshold to thirteen years old, effectively preventing children under thirteen from being classified as delinquent and potentially subject to formal juvenile justice proceedings. The change will apply to any new proceedings or transfers that begin on or after the bill's effective date, which will be 60 days after the bill is signed into law. This modification suggests a recognition that younger children may not be developmentally ready to be held legally accountable for their actions in the same manner as older juveniles.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1381