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

for aged and medical parole earlier and allowing the prison system to award more
credits to offenders for finishing programs that are educational. Maryland also allowed
HB 980, without the governors permission, to allow offenders in felony parole to vote.
Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, a person will no longer get their license suspended if they are
convicted of a drug offense also getting rid of the fee to get your license back, under
Senate Bill 2021.
Michigan
The governor signed to enact multiple bills in March 2017. One includes Senate Bill 8, a
bill that will reform the recidivism rates by applying supervision practices for offenders
on probation or parole to agencies that get state funding. SB 22 is another bill that
reforms the rehabilitative services to those in the age range of 18 and 22. Lastly, SB 9
reforms the reentry program to make it an easier transition back to functioning society.
Minnesota
Minnesota has become more lenient on the sale and possession laws by reducing the
imprisonment time for first-degree and second-degree sales and possession charges for
drugs including heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamines. With Senate File 3481,
Minnesota has increased the amount for a first-degree sale and possession charge from
10 grams to 17. For offenses with violent factors such as firearms, the imprisonment
term has increased.
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