Connecticut House Bill HB05527

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/19
• Refer: 1/17/19
• Refer: 2/21/19

Caption

An Act Excluding Persons Convicted Of Certain Serious Felonies From The Earned Risk Reduction Credit Program.

Impact

The changes proposed by HB 5527 are significant as they impact the landscape of criminal justice and rehabilitation within the state. By effectively barring certain felons from participating in the risk reduction program, the bill aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that more serious offenders serve their complete sentences. This move could result in prolonged incarceration periods for individuals convicted of serious crimes, thus reshaping the overall efficiency of the correction system. Supporters argue that this aligns with a broader mandate to prioritize community safety over leniency in the penal system.

Summary

House Bill 5527 is designed to amend existing statutes concerning the Earned Risk Reduction Credit Program in Connecticut. The bill specifically excludes individuals convicted of certain serious felonies from being eligible to participate in this program, which allows inmates to earn time off their sentences for good behavior. This decision targets a range of serious offenses and seeks to ensure that those who commit particularly violent or dangerous crimes are held accountable without the potential for accelerated release through earned credits. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2019, thus applying to all applicable crimes committed on or after that date.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 5527 appears to be firmly supportive among those advocating for stricter punishments for serious crimes. Supporters believe that the bill serves justice while affirming the state's role in ensuring the safety of its citizens. However, there are dissenting voices and concerns that the exclusion might impede rehabilitation efforts. Critics argue that limiting the risk reduction opportunities undermines restorative justice principles and does not address the root causes of crime. Overall, the discourse remains polarized between the advocacy for harsher penalties versus the calls for rehabilitative approaches to crime.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the definition of 'serious felonies' and the potential for such exclusions to disproportionately affect incarcerated populations. The bill has sparked discussions about fairness and equity within the criminal justice system, especially considering the significant impacts on minority and marginalized communities. Furthermore, there are concerns about the bill undermining the potential positive outcomes associated with rehabilitation programs that offer incentives for good behavior. As laws surrounding criminal justice evolve, HB 5527 exemplifies the ongoing tension between punitive measures and reformative efforts.