Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Williams’ bill ensuring juvenile protections on federal property unanimously passes PA House

Williams’ bill ensuring juvenile protections on federal property unanimously passes PA House

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    March 24, 2026 | 3:14 PM

HARRISBURG, March 24 – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Dan Williams to ensure juveniles are handled through the appropriate state juvenile justice systems, even if actions being adjudicated happen on federal property, unanimously passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today.

“Military installations and other federal properties occupy a unique legal position in that they may be under federal jurisdiction, where the system is not designed to deal with certain elements of family law,” said Williams.

Williams said that when these properties are under exclusive federal jurisdiction, military and other children could be forced through an adult judicial system that lacks the services still-developing young people need, such as age-appropriate counseling, family engagement, education, and rehabilitation.

House Bill 562 would clarify that Pennsylvania retains jurisdiction over juvenile matters on military installation bases and other federal property to ensure misconduct can be handled through the proper juvenile justice systems.

“This bill is about supporting our military families and children,” said Williams. “We need to ensure our youth are treated fairly and appropriately.”

The bill now moves to the state Senate for consideration.