The United States justice system has long been criticized for its harsh sentencing policies, particularly when it comes to juveniles and young adults. Currently, there is no federal law that limits the amount of time a juvenile or young adult can be sentenced to in prison. This has led to countless cases of individuals being sentenced to decades, life in prison and even death for crimes they committed as minors or youth and or were innocent of. 

Research shows that juveniles and young adults have not fully developed their decision-making abilities and are more likely to engage in impulsive behavior. According to the Sentencing Project, "adolescents are less culpable than adults because they lack maturity, have an underdeveloped sense of responsibility, and are more susceptible to peer pressure." Despite this evidence, many states still allow for lengthy sentences for these age groups. In addition, studies have found that longer sentences do not lead to lower recidivism rates. In fact, extended periods of incarceration has negative effects on mental health and increase the likelihood of reoffending. By capping sentences we can prevent excessive punishment that doesn't serve the interest of justice. 

We propose a retroactive sentencing cap of 10 years max for juveniles and 15 years max for youth aged 18-25. And the maximum sentence of 25 years for adult offenders. This would ensure that individuals receive appropriate punishment and those who committed crimes at a young age have a chance at rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

This proposal is supported by numerous organizations such as the American Bar Association and the National Juvenile Defender Center and many more. In addition, several states including California, Colorado, Illinois, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada and Utah have already implemented similar laws.

It is time for our justice system to recognize that juveniles and young adults should not be subjected to excessive sentences that do not take into account their developmental stage. We urge lawmakers across the country to support this retroactive sentencing cap so that we can create a more just, fairer and humane criminal justice system for all Americans and priorities rehabilitation over punishment. 

Sources:

_"The Adolescent Brain: New Research On It's Structural Development " By Jay N. Giedd.

_"Longer Prison Sentences Do Not Deter Recidivism" By Michael Tennesen.

_"The Effects Of Incarceration On Mental Health" By Craig Haney.