Mass incarceration is one of the largest problems being seen around the United States in 2021. It has been occurring for many years and is continuing to rise as more and more individuals are sentenced to prison time. A piece of legislation has been introduced to the Connecticut General Assembly by Senator Will Haskell from the 26th District. The proposed bill is No. 221: AN ACT CONCERNING PAROLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS SERVING LENGTHY SENTENCES FOR CRIMES COMMITTED BEFORE THE INDIVIDUAL TURNED TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF AGE.
Parole is the stipulation that allows for the incarcerated to be released from prison and complete a portion of their sentence under the supervision of a parole officer. This allows for the released to complete their sentence while reintegrating into society. Those in prison below the age of twenty-five have a whole life ahead of them as they are still young. Providing them with the opportunity to receive parole can be beneficial as they can take steps to rebuild their life. A person should not be punished for life because of:

1.) a mistake they made at a young age.

2.) because of a wrongful conviction.

Not only could the opportunity of parole before the age of twenty-five be a beneficial aspect for the incarcerated, but it could solve many problems within the American prison system. Prison overcrowding is one of the most concerning issues being faced within the system. While the financial aspect is immense, there are also health concerns. Living so closely with multiple people is a breeding ground for sickness. The threat of overcrowding is so immense, and something needs to be done.
As students at Eastern Connecticut State University, we recognize that mass incarceration is a cause greatly worthy of fighting for. We propose a fight for change towards giving more the opportunity of being released on parole to rebuild their lives when they are below the age of twenty-five. Please join us in the fight for change to make a difference in the lives of many.