But few states moved to curb juvenile restitution until recently. Those who support juvenile restitution say it not only addresses the victims’ needs, but also helps young people take full responsibility for their crimes. Opponents also point out that, in at least 30 states, children can be ordered to pay restitution to insurance companies. While the way juvenile restitution is calculated varies widely from state to state, poor families are typically hit the hardest. In Maine, which elected a Democratic legislature and governor in 2018, youth advocates sensed an opportunity to change the state’s juvenile restitution law.

Source: Washington Post June 11, 2019 14:48 UTC