Connecticut Senate Bill SB00484

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/13
• Refer: 1/23/13

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Elected Officials From Using Their Positions To Influence The Early Release Of Prisoners.

Impact

If enacted, SB00484 would amend Chapter 961 of the Connecticut General Statutes, introducing legal parameters within which elected officials must operate regarding prisoner release. The bill responds to concerns around ethical governance and the potential for corruption by establishing stricter boundaries for what constitutes acceptable behavior for elected officials in the context of the criminal justice system. By limiting the influence of personal relationships and political pressure on judicial proceedings related to prisoner release, the bill reinforces a commitment to objective legal standards and practices.

Summary

SB00484, proposed by Senator Bartolomeo and Senator Doyle, aims to prevent elected officials in Connecticut from using their positions to influence or encourage the early release of prisoners. This legislation is created with the intention of promoting public safety by ensuring that the power associated with elected offices is not misused for the benefit of specific individuals seeking early release from incarceration. Importantly, the bill contains language that exempts efforts aimed at proving the innocence of certain convicted individuals, allowing for a balance between accountability and justice.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB00484 is likely to focus on the balance between public safety and the rights of convicted individuals seeking justice. While supporters of the bill emphasize the necessity of maintaining integrity within the judicial system and preventing the misuse of political power, opponents may argue that it restricts the ability of elected officials to advocate for those they believe deserve a second chance. Additionally, the provision that allows for appeals related to wrongful convictions may not be sufficient to allay concerns for those who fear unfair treatment under the law.