Mandatory minimums have also perpetuated mass incarceration, and many states are working to reduce or eliminate the use of mandatory minimums in their courts. In short, criminal justice reform has solved one problem while exacerbating another.
Federal prisoners made an average of $0.12 - $0.40 at the time of the report. That means that even people who managed to work 40 hours per week would make, at best, $16 per week.
Virginia lawmakers hoped to eliminate mandatory minimums as part of sweeping justice reform, but they couldn’t find common ground.
Amid protests and calls to reform the American justice system, organizations are dropping their racist namesakes. With many facilities carrying racist prison names, some are wondering when state and federal penitentiaries will shed that legacy.
Virginia is now also the first Southern state to abolish the death penalty. But Gov. Northam’s remarks about the new law signal a renewed effort to end capital punishment across the country.
Criminal justice reform is at the top of many legislative calendars. Florida is no different, but the House is letting Senate efforts stall.
With prison reform at the forefront in many states, Arizona lawmakers look to establish outside oversight in House Bill 2167.
The problem of disenfranchisement is a state-by-state issue, and it’s not just about voting. Even with nationwide support to overturn disenfranchisement laws, some states are doubling down on their right to deny felons certain constitutional protections.
With more journalists arrested in 2020 than ever, some question whether or not cities are trying to suppress freedom of the press.
Lawmakers in Virginia recently passed a bill that would eliminate the gay trans panic defense, joining renewed efforts for a nationwide ban.