Albany, NY - New York State Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero (D, WFP) has announced her sponsorship of Bill A.10264, a bill which will establish the Youth Justice Innovation Fund in New York State.

This bill will allocate $50 million of the $250 million promised by the Raise the Age law to the new fund. This law raised the age of criminal responsibility to 18, and took measures to protect youth in the justice system. This new fund will ensure that the $50 million goes directly to community organizations that connect young people with essential services, such as mentors, conflict mediation, and employment. These community organizations will be able to apply directly for state funding in order to obtain funds.

Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero:

“Raise the Age was a huge first step in making sure youth facing the justice system are treated fairly. We’ve seen youth arrests decrease across the state following the law’s passage. However, Raise the Age also promised $250 million annually to go toward community alternatives to incarceration. As of 2026, much of these funds have gone unused. The Youth Justice Innovation Fund will get $50 million of these funds out from behind red tape, and to the community organizations it was promised to. The best way to deal with youth crime is to invest in our youth before they are ever forced into a position where crime feels like the only way. This new fund is an important step toward making that a reality.”