LEGISLATIVE
ADVOCACY
2025
Rhode Island Bills.
Prison reform legislation advocacy is crucial because it addresses systemic injustices within the criminal justice system and pushes for policies that promote fairness, rehabilitation, and public safety.
By advocating for prison reform legislation, we create a justice system that values rehabilitation over punishment, reduces unnecessary incarceration, and fosters a more equitable and humane society.
Free Communication Bill
Senate Bill No. 128 BY Kallman, Bissaillon, Mack, Euer, Murray, Acosta ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- CORRECTIONS DEPARTMENT (Repeals 42-56-38.1 and requires the DOC to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles held in residential placement or detention centers and requires that those facilities provide in-person contact visits.) {LC170/1} 01/31/2025 Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary
What It Is
Senate Bill No. 128, introduced in the Rhode Island Senate on January 31, 2025, proposes significant reforms to the state's correctional system. The bill mandates the Department of Corrections (DOC) to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles in residential placements or detention centers. Additionally, it requires these facilities to offer in-person contact visits. To implement these changes, the bill seeks to repeal Section 42-56-38.1 of the Rhode Island General Laws, which currently governs prisoner telephone use within the DOC.
why it matters
Communication while incarcerated is essential for rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society. Staying connected with loved ones provides emotional support, reduces isolation, and fosters growth, responsibility, and stability. However, overpriced and unreliable communication systems create barriers that sever vital connections, leaving many without the support they need. Families often struggle to afford the high costs, making an already difficult situation even harder. Beyond emotional well-being, regular contact helps maintain relationships, access resources, and prepare for life after incarceration. Affordable, reliable communication should be a right, not a privilege, ensuring that those seeking a second chance have the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Sentencing reconsideration act
House Bill No. 5362
BY Casimiro, Spears, Felix, Morales, Cruz, Lombardi, Place, McEntee, Caldwell, Craven
ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATED TO CRIMINAL PROCEDURE -- SENTENCING RECONSIDERATION ACT (Allows eligible individuals serving sentences of imprisonment to seek sentence reductions from the superior court, individuals serving life without parole or minimum mandatory sentences pursuant to law, would not be eligible for such relief.)
{LC1091/1}
02/07/2025 Introduced, referred to House Judiciary
What It Is
House Bill No. 5362, introduced in the Rhode Island House on February 7, 2025, seeks to establish the "Sentencing Reconsideration Act." This legislation would allow eligible individuals serving prison sentences to petition the superior court for sentence reductions. However, those serving life without parole or mandatory minimum sentences would not be eligible for such relief.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
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Eligibility Criteria: Incarcerated individuals who have served at least ten years of their sentence can apply for sentencing reconsideration.
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Exclusions: The act does not apply to individuals serving life sentences without the possibility of parole or those serving mandatory sentences of incarceration.
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Grounds for Reconsideration: When evaluating a motion for reconsideration, the court may consider factors such as:
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Rehabilitative Efforts: Evidence of rehabilitation, including educational achievements, vocational training, participation in treatment programs, and positive contributions to the facility or community.
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Changes in Law: Modifications in sentencing laws that might affect the individual's original sentence.
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Sentencing Disparities: Instances where the original sentence is disproportionately severe compared to current standards or similar cases.
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why it matters
House Bill No. 5362, titled the "Sentencing Reconsideration Act," is important because it creates a legal pathway for eligible incarcerated individuals to request a sentence reduction from the superior court. The bill excludes those serving life without parole or mandatory minimum sentences, ensuring that only certain individuals can benefit from this opportunity.
This legislation matters because it encourages rehabilitation by allowing sentence reductions for those who have demonstrated personal growth through education, vocational training, and other self-improvement programs. It also addresses sentencing inequities by providing a mechanism to correct disproportionately harsh sentences that may have been imposed under outdated laws or sentencing guidelines. Additionally, the bill has the potential to reduce prison overcrowding by allowing eligible inmates to petition for reduced sentences, leading to cost savings and better resource allocation. Furthermore, it helps align sentencing with modern legal and social standards, ensuring that past sentences can be reviewed in light of evolving perspectives on justice.
By giving certain incarcerated individuals a second chance, this bill aims to promote fairness in the criminal justice system while maintaining public safety through its eligibility restrictions.
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