Will Congress revisit federal sentencing laws?
http://www.famm.org/ The New York Times probed that question in an exciting article today that quotes federal judges from across the political spectrum indicating that the time has come to review federal sentencing. Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM) wholeheartedly agrees and we have been saying so ever since the November elections! FAMM president Julie Stewart is quoted in the article urging that it’s time for big sentencing reforms, not just small ones.
The article notes that federal judges, including many conservatives appointed by Republican presidents, say that the combination of Democratic leadership and growing Republican support for change may provide the best chance in years for a review of the system. “With a changing of the guard, there should at least should be some discussion,” said William W. Wilkins, chief judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, who was nominated by President Ronald Reagan.
This is exactly where FAMM wants the discussion to focus – on the growing support for cost effective, fair and proportionate sentencing laws among Democrats and Republicans, which is the key to federal sentencing reform.
Read the full article here and take a moment to email your views on it to reporter Lynette Clemetson at lyclem@nytimes.com.
Support FAMM's work for fair and proportionate sentences
Articles like this demonstrate FAMM's work – with lawmakers, media and the courts – and make the case for your support. FAMM relies on donations from individuals and foundations to continue our sentencing reform projects and to educate the public on unjust sentencing laws. Please make a donation today to help us promote justice throughout the nation.
What is FAMM?
Families Against Mandatory Minimums is the national voice for fair and proportionate sentencing laws. We shine a light on the human face of sentencing, advocate for state and federal sentencing reform, and mobilize thousands of individuals and families whose lives are adversely affected by unjust sentences. FAMM's vision is a nation in which sentencing is individualized, humane, and sufficient but not greater than necessary to impose just punishment, secure public safety, and support successful rehabilitation and reentry.
http://www.famm.org/