New York will no longer prosecute 16- and 17-year olds as adults

NEW YORK (WABC) -- New York raises the age of criminal responsibility under the new so called "Raise the Age" initiative.

The reform, signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo, states 16- and 17-year-olds will no longer be prosecuted as adult criminals.

The age will change to 17 next year and to 18 the year after.

It now directs minors who commit misdemeanors to family court and creates a special youth court for felonies.