Martin County backs resolution asking state to boost juvenile‑justice funding as 'Raise the Age' expands

Nancy Hodges, Eastern Area consultant for the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC), asked Martin County to support a resolution requesting increased state funding so local programs can serve 16‑ and 17‑year‑olds after North Carolina's "Raise the Age" change takes effect. Hodges told the board the state currently provides $114,943 in JCPC funds to Martin County and the county provides a 20 percent local match ($22,496).

Hodges said JCPC funds support afterschool programs, tutoring, summer programming, teen court and other diversion and rehabilitation services; adding 16‑ and 17‑year‑olds will raise demand for services. She said the final allocation formula and exact additional amounts were not yet available.

Commissioner Ronnie Smith moved to adopt the resolution in support of JCPC allocation expansion, Commissioner Lilley seconded, and the board approved the motion unanimously. The resolution asks the General Assembly to provide adequate and timely increases to ensure program expansion and successful implementation of the juvenile‑justice changes effective Dec. 1, 2019.