Our country's criminal justice system is broken. Right now we have a valuable opportunity to address recidivism and save thousands of dollars while doing so. It has become clear that harsh prison sentences do not have the crime-deterrent effect they were expected to have. Non-violent and drug-related offenders are incarcerated for years at a time in crowded prisons, costing our country thousands of dollars, while also failing to guarantee a reduction of recidivism.

The state of Indiana incarcerates a great many level 6 felons (the lowest level of a felony) for a year on average. These mostly non-violent individuals crowd prisons, costing the state $52 a day or an astonishing $249 for juveniles. Assigning supervised probation, instead of a prison sentence, would cost a mere $4. According to the IRS (Indiana Risk Survey), which analyzes factors such as past criminal history and substance abuse, these individuals commit small crimes and therefore have the highest risk of doing so again. In order to stop this from happening, it is useful to invest in a wide gamut of corrections programs, including mental health and addiction services.  

We can move toward a more efficient and restorative justice system by supporting the Second Chance Reauthorization Act and the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act of 2015 at Congress. The former strengthens reentry programs ranging from job training to substance abuse treatment and provides opportunities for behavioral change that would otherwise not be available in the event of mere incarceration. The Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act reforms enhanced mandatory minimum sentences for prior drug felons, gives judges flexibility, broadens prison-based reentry programs and limits solitary confinement for juveniles. These bills encourage our government to invest in community-based initiatives that seek to break the cycle of crime for the benefit of both the individual and of society in general.   

Are you willing to stand with us in supporting the Second Chance Reauthorization Act and the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act of 2015, as we communicate their urgency to Indiana Senator Joe Donnelly?