Changes To Oregon’s Juvenile Justice System

Portland, Or. – Big changes are coming to Oregon’s justice system for kids. One big change is prosecutors will be required to request a hearing on whether a juvenile’s Measure 11 case should be moved to adult court. It happens automatically the way things stand now.

This bill kicked up controversy during the session. Prosecutors claim it could lead to the parole of under age killers, like Kip Kinkel. Supporters say its not supposed to apply to those already behind bars. Today’s signing in Portland will also pay tribute to the bill’s main sponsor, Senator Jackie Winters. The long time Republican lawmaker died in May. Members of her family will speak at the 11 am signing in North Portland.