HB589, The Second Look Act, would allow eligible people in North Carolina to petition for a fair sentence review after serving 10 years or 50% of a shorter sentence. This bill promotes rehabilitation, reduces prison overcrowding, and strengthens families — but it is currently stalled in the House Rules Committee and has NOT passed. We need lawmakers to move HB589 forward and give North Carolina families hope for justice and second chances. Even if you are not from NC your signature can help!   ✅ FULL PETITION BODY TEXT  
To: The North Carolina General Assembly, House Rules Committee, and all NC State Representatives
Subject: Support HB589 – The Second Look Act North Carolina’s criminal justice system is overdue for meaningful, humane, and responsible reform. HB589 — The Second Look Act — is designed to bring fairness, rehabilitation, and public safety back into balance. Filed on March 31, 2025, HB589 passed its First Reading and is now stalled in the House Committee on Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House as of April 1, 2025. It has NOT passed and will not advance without strong public pressure. We, the undersigned, urge North Carolina lawmakers to move HB589 forward immediately.  
✅ What HB589 Does 
HB589 provides a structured, safe pathway for eligible individuals serving long sentences to request a sentence review after demonstrating rehabilitation. Under HB589, a person may apply for resentencing if they have: Served 10 years, or
Served 50% of a sentence of 10 years or less, AND
Shown positive conduct, growth, and no threat to public safety
The court must consider 12 factors, including rehabilitation, age at offense, education, institutional record, mental health progress, and support systems. Individuals sentenced to life imprisonment are excluded. If granted, the person is resentenced under North Carolina’s structured sentencing laws.  
✅ Why North Carolina Needs HB589 
1. NC Prisons Are Critically Understaffed
Nearly 40% of correctional positions were vacant in 2024, creating unsafe conditions for both staff and incarcerated individuals. 2. The Incarcerated Population Is Aging
One‑third of NC’s prison population is age 55+
Older adults present extremely low public safety risk
They cost more to house due to medical needs
3. Long Sentences Do Not Improve Public Safety
Data shows that lengthy prison terms do not significantly deter crime. They redirect taxpayer money away from community safety and rehabilitation. 4. Rehabilitation Should Matter
People mature, grow, and change — often dramatically — over long periods. HB589 recognizes transformation and provides a fair opportunity for review. 5. It Strengthens Families and Communities
Reuniting families, reducing recidivism, and easing financial burden on taxpayers builds safer and more stable communities. 6. HB589 Reflects North Carolina Values
Fairness, accountability, fiscal responsibility, and second chances are rooted in our communities. This bill reflects those values.  
✅ Why Action Is Needed Now 
HB589 is stuck in the House Rules Committee, which means it will not move unless lawmakers take action.
This bill deserves a hearing — and the people of North Carolina deserve a justice system that values rehabilitation and recognizes second chances.  
✅ What We Are Asking For 
We, the undersigned, respectfully request that North Carolina lawmakers: Move HB589 out of the House Rules Committee immediately.
Bring the bill to the House floor for debate and a vote.
Support HB589 and ensure its passage.
Recognize rehabilitation, public safety, and strong families as core values of our state.
 
✅ Why Your Signature Matters 
Your signature will: Demonstrate strong public support for HB589
Show lawmakers that North Carolinians demand sentencing review reform
Support families and individuals impacted by long-term incarceration
Build momentum toward meaningful justice reform
Push the bill out of committee and onto the House floor
 
✅ Add your name. 
Together, we can urge North Carolina to build a justice system rooted in fairness, healing, and hope.
It’s time for North Carolina to pass HB589 — The Second Look Act.