The Political Dynamics of Justice Reform in The U.S.

Indiana
There has been framework to amend sentencing policies that coincide with the offense
rather than the standard for everyone. It includes the use of rehabilitation for drug
offenders to keep them out prison and tightening the ropes of offenders on probation.
Iowa
In 2016 Iowa reduced the mandatory minimum sentencing for second degree robbery
offenses from seven years to five or six years. The House File 2064 also allows
offenders who committed non-violent drug offenses to be released early after serving
half their mandatory minimum sentence.
Kansas
In April 2016, Kansas passed Senate Bill 367 to save money on offenders who are
considered "low-risk" by serving their time helping the community while they live at
home. Instead, the bill intends that the money is spent rehabilitating the "high-risk"
offenders to keep them from entering the criminal justice system again after they are
released. SB 367 is also aimed at fixing the juvenile justice system by categorizing them
as "low-risk" offenders and keeping them out of the prison systems to
lower incarceration rates.
Kentucky
Kentucky passed House Bill 40 to allow offenders to file to have their low-level
conviction removed from their record. This also allows people with their felony records
removed to vote.
Louisiana
Louisiana allowed House Bill 266, a “ban the box” policy that holds up the question
“have you ever been convicted of a felony” on employment applications to give a fair
chance to those that have. In 2016, they also passed Senate Bill 324, changing the age
for juveniles to be considered criminally responsible to 18.
Maine
This reform is aimed at fixing police misconduct and the policies that impact the public
of an indigent nature. In April, the governor enacted a bill that reformed the bail system,
waiving fines and fee in certain cases, called LD 1639.
Maryland
With House Bill 1312, Maryland reversed the mandatory minimum sentence for drug
crimes that weren't violent. It also allowed offenders that are incarcerated and can apply
Page 38 of 262