Five Capitol Classroom Youth traveled to the Washington State Capitol to testify in both the Senate and House on a bill they have been working hard to pass into law. The bill would allow individuals convicted of a crime before their 18th birthday to petition the Intermediate Sentence Review Board for early release after turning age 24.
Significant support was shared for this legislation, along with inspirational testimonies before lawmakers. The words of the youth testifying were filled with honesty, transparency, passion, wisdom, and hope. These five young men spoke about their experiences, reflecting on the importance of this bill to give hope to those working hard to better themselves during their time at juvenile rehabilitation facilities.
The youth testified, took a tour around the Capitol building, and conducted themselves like gentlemen and scholars. This was a day to remember for our youth along their journey toward achieving Capitol Classroom goals.
Links to Senate testimony: https://tvw.org/video/senate-human-services-2024011255/
Link to House testimony: https://tvw.org/video/house-community-safety-justice-reentry-2024011299/