Resources Library

The National Center for Youth Law shares its learning and experience to assist people in our efforts to support and empower youth. Browse our research and resources.

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Immigration Resources

Resources regarding immigrant children in federal custody.

Rights of Children Potentially Subject to the Laken Riley Act

The Laken Riley Act (LRA), signed into law on January 29, 2025, amends the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by expanding mandatory immigration detention to include individuals who are arrested for, charged with, convicted of, or admit to committing specified crimes. This guide addresses questions that are likely to arise if the LRA is enforced against children under the age of 18.

From school to court: New report details extensive harms tickets inflict on students

A new report that examines the experiences of young people who become ensnared in Colorado's municipal court system due to being ticketed at school and in their communities highlights several disturbing trends and calls on community leaders to implement needed reforms.

Legal Rights of Unaccompanied Children in ORR Custody

Providing Mental Health Education to Students is Critical — and Achievable

Since the 2021 enactment of California's Senate Bill 224, public middle and high schools that offer health courses are required to include mental health instruction within those courses. The law additionally called on the state to develop plans to expand this instruction to schools across the state.

Los Angeles County Five-Year Strategic Plan to Prevent and Address Child Trafficking

The Los Angeles County Five-Year Strategic Plan to Prevent and Address Child Trafficking is a bold and ambitious proposal that is meant to serve as a guide-post for the county — the most populous in the U.S. — to confront the commercial sexual exploitation of children and youth (CSEC/Y).