1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

Trump and republicans are talking about reducing the age of adulthood to 14. This initially appears to be about crime and punishment. In this realm, this is absolutely terrible. The justice system should recognize the unique circumstances and developmental needs of youth offenders. Prosecuting and incarcerating children as adults can have severe, lasting consequences and often fails to address the underlying issues that contribute to delinquent behavior. A more rehabilitative and restorative approach focused on counseling, education, and community-based interventions would better serve both public safety interests and the wellbeing of these young individuals. Harsh punitive measures too frequently trap minors in a cycle of crime and disadvantage. Embracing alternative models that prioritize accountability while offering age-appropriate support and opportunities could break this destructive pattern. However, this also applies to marriage. Children the age of 14 could be married. Children the age of 14 are not developmentally able to consent to marriage or sex with someone who is considered an adult now. However, this change in the law would allow people to predate upon children by marrying them. The marriage would stop any case for child abuse. This is horrifying. I have asked you to step up and stop things since Trump took office. Once again, I am demanding you do something to stop this for it is absolutely damaging to children on so many levels. It is abhorrent. Please step up and protect children. Legal adulthood needs to stay where it is. There are no “gangs of teens” terrorizing our country. It is a rouse to abuse children legally.