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Advocates press for equal education for 18–21‑year‑olds in adult facilities (H620)
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Summary
Citizens for Juvenile Justice urged the committee to pass H620 so that 18–21‑year‑old students incarcerated in adult houses of correction and DOC facilities receive education and special‑education services equivalent to what Department of Youth Services (DYS) provides until age 22 or diploma attainment.
Joshua Dankoff (Citizens for Juvenile Justice) testified that 18–21‑year‑olds incarcerated in adult houses of correction and the Department of Corrections retain a right to education under state law until they obtain a diploma or reach age 22, but the level of services in adult facilities falls well short of DYS standards. Dankoff said his organization's analysis found the proportion of 18–21‑year‑olds with IEPs who receive services in adult facilities is far lower than in DYS and that daily instructional time and year‑round educational offerings are inadequate.
H620 would require parity of educational rights and services for these young people, including appropriate special‑education supports. Dankoff urged the committee to advance the bill to ensure continuity of education for incarcerated young adults and to reduce education‑related recidivism risks.
No committee action was recorded during the hearing.
