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The Impact of the First Step Act

Those who have been arrested on drug charges and are awaiting their day in court have a bit of hope for their future. It’s more than just the opportunity to use the bonding company Yadkin NC services to get released on bail. It’s the effect that the First Step Act will on mandatory minimum sentencing practices.

The Ways of the Past

Many have complained about the inconsistencies of criminal sentencing, especially in nonviolent and first offense cases. There are over two million people incarcerated across the United States, with many serving harsh sentences for crimes wouldn’t have thought to carry so much weight. The demands of funding on the prison system are draining to the taxpayer, and the labor requirements are overworking already underpaid staff. Long sentences, limited resources, and personnel challenges complicate an already complex justice system.

The Future Hope

Through the passing of the First Step Act, there is new funding and new guidance for prison reform. It starts with reassessing the sentencing practiced for nonviolent drug offenses, but it will also influence the creation of in-prison programming to reduce recidivism. Drug treatment, vocational training, and education are just a few of the opportunities that can help those who are incarcerated actually change their life and have for a post-prison future. Some programs allow inmates to work toward early release or a transfer to prerelease custody.

The Present Help

According to Justice Department officials, more than 3,100 people were eligible for immediate release from federal prisons all over the nation because of the First Step Act. The act provided an increase in the number of days that could be earned toward early release, and the prison system is reporting that up to 85% of people in federal prison will benefit from the change.

Prison reform has been an issue for years, but with the First Step Act, progress has been made. The efforts of activists, politicians, and nonprofits can continue to address the concerns of the American justice system.