The committee votes after receiving thousands of public comments.
The U.S. Sentencing Commission approved guidelines to expand qualifications for federal inmates to receive a compassionate release from prison. The commission vote to pass the new policy, which gives judges greater discretion in determining whether there are “extraordinary and compelling reasons” to grant compassionate release. New categories have been added to the list of extraordinary reasons, including whether an inmate has been sexually assaulted by a corrections officer.
“If the commission is to select a correct policy, the fair policy, the just policy, we must listen to those who have lived out the consequences of our choices,” said Commission Chairman Judge Carlton Reeves, adding that the commission received thousands of public comments giving input on the measure. “If you have spoken to the commission, whether from the halls of Congress or the desk of a prison library, you have been heard.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- That this policy change makes the U.S. a more just place for its citizens.
- For administration officials to seek ways to protect and maintain human rights for all Americans.
- For the Sentencing Commission as they sort through public feedback to inform their decisions.
Sources: Reuters
