The laws need to be changed for mandatory minimum sentencing in prisons for first time felony drug charges. It should not be black and white or cut and dried so to speak. When the individual is a non violent first time drug offender, there should be alternatives such as drug court, probation, house arrest, etc. These individuals should not be automatically sentenced to prison on a mandatory sentence with a huge mandatory fine and surcharge. Also these individuals should be allowed time taken off their sentence for time served and good behavior. There needs to be help, also, for drug offenders instead of punishment.

There also should be good time given for those entering into prison regardless of sentencing. The war on drugs has become way too harsh and takes nothing into consideration. There are good people out there that have made some bad mistakes and just need to get back on track. Once they are convicted of a felony drug charge and sent to prison, their life is never the same. They have a very rough time getting back into society, getting a job, and fitting in again.

The re-entry program and rehab for these offenders needs a great overhaul so as to keep them from feeling desperate once they are released. Programs and help, financial, and other such help should be a part of the rehab to help these offenders get back on their feet and turn their lives around.