These 10 truths about juvenile justice reform provide a guide for policymakers across the nation seeking best practices or to initiate successful reform. Each truth is directed at cost-efficient and effective reform, with examples from various states.
Criminal Justice
West Virginia can reduce recidivism — Virginia shows how
For decades, America’s response to crime has largely been measured by the number of prison beds it could fill. Politicians competed to be “tough on crime,” while correctional systems focused on punishment rather than rehabilitation. Yet, despite spending billions of taxpayer dollars on incarceration, many states continue to struggle with high recidivism rates and revolving...
July 16, 2026