Louisiana’s Senate Bill 74: What Families Need to Know

If you're a parent in Louisiana, you might have heard some buzz about Senate Bill 74, introduced by State Senator Alan Seabaugh in April 2025. This new piece of legislation is stirring strong opinions about how our state handles juveniles in the criminal justice system. Let’s break down what SB 74 is, why it matters, and how it could affect families and young people right here at home.

What's the Big Deal About Senate Bill 74?

Under Louisiana's current law, juveniles aged 15-16 charged with felonies typically go through juvenile court, focusing on rehabilitation. SB 74 would change this, automatically placing juveniles aged 15 or older accused of any felony directly into adult criminal court, eliminating the discretion currently held by judges and district attorneys.[1]

Why Are Lawmakers Considering This Bill?

Supporters of SB 74 argue that stronger measures are urgently needed to address juvenile crime. Louisiana's recent spike in violent crime involving juveniles, particularly homicides, has prompted concern from lawmakers and law enforcement. Senator Seabaugh believes that treating serious juvenile crimes as adult offenses will deter criminal activity and protect communities. 16th Judicial District Attorney Bo Duhé emphasizes that gangs often exploit juveniles, relying on lenient juvenile penalties, stating, "Adult criminals are 'using' juveniles to do their bidding precisely because the juvenile system lets them off easy."[8]

Potential Pros of Senate Bill 74

Proponents argue several potential benefits of SB 74:

• Deterrence of Juvenile Crime: Advocates claim tougher penalties will discourage juveniles from committing crimes.

• Enhanced Public Safety: Supporters believe longer incarceration periods and adult-level penalties will protect communities by keeping violent youth offenders off the streets.

• Reduced Gang Exploitation: By imposing stricter consequences, proponents argue gangs will be less likely to exploit juveniles to commit crimes, thereby reducing organized youth violence.

• Consistency in Sentencing: Eliminating judicial discretion ensures uniform punishment for felony offenses, addressing concerns about inconsistent or lenient sentences.

But Does Adult Prosecution Deter Youth Crime?

Research consistently indicates the opposite. Studies show juveniles tried as adults have higher re-offense rates compared to those kept in juvenile courts. For example, a multi-state study found juveniles tried in adult court reoffend at a striking 82% rate, significantly higher than those in juvenile systems.[2] A Florida study further demonstrated that youths prosecuted as adults committed new crimes sooner and more frequently.[3]

How Could SB 74 Affect Families?

Families would feel significant impacts if SB 74 becomes law. Young people prosecuted as adults face harsher penalties, longer incarceration, and lasting consequences, including difficulties securing employment, education, and stable housing. Communities could face increased long-term crime rates due to higher recidivism among youth processed through adult systems.[4]

What Are Other States Doing?

Most states have shifted away from prosecuting juveniles as adults. For instance, Illinois eliminated automatic adult prosecution in 2015, focusing instead on rehabilitation and intervention, significantly reducing juvenile recidivism.[5] Pennsylvania similarly reformed its policies after recognizing negative outcomes of adult prosecutions.[5]

Louisiana Voters Recently Rejected Similar Measures

In March 2025, Louisiana voters decisively rejected Constitutional Amendment 3, which sought similar expansions for prosecuting juveniles as adults. About 66% voted "No," indicating strong public skepticism toward harsher juvenile justice policies.[6]

Alternatives Louisiana Could Pursue

Alternatives with proven effectiveness include:

• Enhanced Juvenile Court Programs: Investing in evidence-based counseling, education, and vocational training programs.

• Restorative Justice Initiatives: Facilitating dialogue between juveniles and victims to promote accountability and rehabilitation.

• Community-Based Programs: Funding mentorship and after-school programs proven to reduce juvenile crime rates.[7]

  
  

Quotes from Experts and Advocates

Sarah Omojola, Louisiana Director for the Vera Institute, notes: "High incarceration rates have only served to destabilize communities rather than reduce crime."[6]

Chris Alexander, a Louisiana Republican activist, criticized similar policies, stating, "It’s going to do nothing to reduce crime…nothing."[6]

Your Voice Matters!

We'd love to hear your thoughts on Senate Bill 74. Please take a moment to answer these quick questions:

Do you believe juveniles should automatically be tried as adults for all felony offenses at age 15?

• 0%Yes
• 0%No
• 0%Unsure

Do you think tougher penalties will effectively reduce juvenile crime in your community?

• 0%Yes
• 0%No
• 0%Unsure

Would you support more community-based rehabilitation programs instead of stricter sentencing for juveniles?

• Yes
• No
• Depends on the Rehabilitation Programs

Take Action

If this issue matters to you, your voice can make a difference. Consider contacting your local lawmakers to share your opinions and advocate for solutions that best serve our community:

• Find Your Louisiana State Legislators: Louisiana State Legislature - Find Your Legislators

• Contact Your State Senator by Phone: Call the Louisiana Senate switchboard at (225) 342-2040

• Contact Your State Representative by Phone: Call the Louisiana House of Representatives at (225) 342-6945

• Email Your Lawmakers: Use this tool to quickly email your representatives: Contact Your Legislators

Let them know how you feel about Senate Bill 74 and encourage policies that you believe support safer, stronger communities for Louisiana families.

Disclaimer

This blog post is provided by Johnson Carroll Law for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal concerns or advice, please contact our office directly.

References

[1] Louisiana State Legislature. Senate Bill 74, 2025 Regular Session. [2] American Bar Association, "Should Juveniles Be Charged as Adults in the Criminal Justice System?" 2018. [3] PBS Frontline, "Does Treating Kids Like Adults Make a Difference?" [4] Southern Poverty Law Center, "Defending Youth in Louisiana," 2023. [5] PBS Frontline, "Juvenile Justice Stats." [6] Louisiana Illuminator, "Louisiana voters reject constitutional amendments," March 29, 2025. [7] Louisiana State Bar Association Journal, "Restorative Justice in Louisiana," 2023. [8] KATC News, "Gov. Landry signs bill to charge 17-year-olds as adults," 2024.