Mississippi has the second-highest imprisonment rate in the country, largely due to extreme sentencing and restrictive parole laws that offer no way out. These laws are costing us millions and they aren’t making us any safer.
Mississippi lawmakers can pass two common sense criminal justice reform measures this session. HB 796 would limit the use of habitual sentences. SB 2795 would extend parole eligibility to people who have been denied that opportunity, but it should be expanded to ensure more people have the opportunity for release. Both have passed in their respective houses – with overwhelming bipartisan support.
Mississippi lawmakers must pass meaningful criminal justice reform this session. Will you take the pledge to urge legislators to take action?