Connecticut Senate Bill SB00496

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

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

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Award Of Risk Reduction Credit Toward A Reduction In Sentence For A Crime Committed With A Firearm.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would directly impact the state's criminal justice system by restricting the methods through which sentences can be reduced for certain violent offenses. By eliminating the opportunity for risk reduction credits in firearm-related cases, the bill aims to deter gun violence and reflects a shift toward harsher penalties for such offenses. This move is anticipated to resonate with constituents concerned about safety and the prevalence of gun crimes in their communities.

Summary

SB00496 is an act that seeks to amend section 18-98e of the general statutes to prohibit individuals sentenced for crimes involving the use of a firearm from earning risk reduction credits toward a sentence reduction. This bill was introduced to address concerns regarding public safety and the potential leniency shown to offenders involved in gun-related crimes. The legislation emphasizes a tough-on-crime approach, particularly in cases that involve firearms.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face opposition from advocates who argue that risk reduction credits serve an important rehabilitative purpose for many offenders. Critics contend that any measures that effectively remove opportunities for rehabilitation could lead to overcrowding in prisons and negate the progress made toward addressing systemic issues within the state’s criminal justice framework. Supporters of the bill counter that the severity of firearm-related crimes warrants a reevaluation of how lenient policies might contribute to ongoing public safety crises.