Directs the Louisiana State Law Institute to evaluate Louisiana's compliance with the United States Supreme Court ruling regarding juvenile life sentences without parole.
Impact
The resolution highlights that there are currently 42 individuals in Louisiana who are serving life sentences without the possibility of parole for non-homicide crimes committed as juveniles. If implemented, the recommendations from the Law Institute could lead to significant changes in Louisiana's juvenile sentencing framework, potentially allowing for earlier opportunities for parole and reducing the life sentences imposed on juvenile offenders. This could mark a substantial shift in how juvenile offenders are treated within the state's criminal justice system, promoting rehabilitative over punitive measures.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution 37 (SCR37) was introduced to ensure that Louisiana's juvenile sentencing laws comply with the United States Supreme Court ruling in Graham v. Florida. The Supreme Court's decision declared that sentencing a juvenile to life without the possibility of parole for non-homicide offenses is unconstitutional under the Eighth Amendment. SCR37 directs the Louisiana State Law Institute to conduct an evaluation of the state's compliance with this ruling and to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature regarding potential amendments to existing laws.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SCR37 appears to be supportive, especially among advocates for juvenile justice reform. The resolution aims to align state law with constitutional standards, shedding light on past policies that may have been too harsh on young offenders. However, there may also be contrasting opinions regarding the necessity and extent of potential amendments to sentencing laws, especially relating to public safety and the consequences of juvenile crimes.
Contention
Notable points of contention revolve around the implications of changing juvenile sentencing laws. While reform advocates argue for a humane approach that considers the age and circumstances of juvenile offenders, some voices may express concerns regarding accountability and public safety. The discussions could also involve debates about the role of the legislative body in potentially reducing sentences and the implications of such changes on victims and communities harmed by juvenile crime.
Requests that the La. State Law Institute evaluate La.'s compliance with the U. S. Supreme Court's ruling regarding juvenile life sentences without parole
To direct the Louisiana State Law Institute to study and make recommendations on the revision of law regarding the transfer of a juvenile from the juvenile justice system to the adult criminal justice system.
Provides relative to sentencing and parole of certain juvenile offenders sentenced to life imprisonment and terms of imprisonment of more than thirty years (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.