Discussion around proposed prison sentencing reforms is continuing in New York as lawmakers, advocates, and families prepare for the upcoming legislative session.
In late November, supporters held a rally at the Mary Nelson Youth Center in South Syracuse as part of a coordinated effort across the state to draw attention to three criminal justice reform bills.
- The Second Look Act would authorize judges to review and reconsider sentences longer than 10 years.
- The Earned Time Act expands “good and merit time” programs to encourage incarcerated individuals to participate in rehabilative programming, to prepare for reintegration into the community.
- The Marvin Mayfield Act would eliminate mandatory minimum sentences.
Supporters say the legislation would modernize sentencing practices, reduce the prison population, and reinvest public dollars into rehabilitation and reentry services.
Armand Perry, who was incarcerated for 22 years, said the reforms acknowledge the potential for better rehabilitation and change.
“It recognizes that redemption is real and that people are more than the worst thing they have ever done,” he said.
Melanie Bishop, whose son is incarcerated, said families like hers are simply asking the state to do better.
“You don't know how bad the system is until it comes to your doorstep,” Bishop said.
The Syracuse rally was one of eight held across the state this week, as supporters push for momentum heading into the upcoming legislative session.
