Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB6341

Introduced
11/9/23  

Caption

FAMILIES Act Finding Alternatives to Mass Incarceration: Lives Improved by Ending Separation Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, the FAMILIES Act would significantly alter the landscape of federal sentencing laws by allowing courts to divert qualifying individuals into comprehensive community supervision programs. This has the potential to yield positive outcomes for service participants and their families, reduce recidivism rates, and alleviate the burden on the criminal justice system. The bill includes provisions to connect participants with essential services, such as healthcare, housing support, and job training, thereby promoting their well-being and stability. Furthermore, the act includes appropriations for the program's implementation, indicating a serious commitment to its objectives.

Summary

House Bill 6341, titled the 'Finding Alternatives to Mass Incarceration: Lives Improved by Ending Separation Act of 2023' or the 'FAMILIES Act', aims to reform sentencing for specific demographics such as parents of minor children, expectant parents, and other caregivers by diverting them from incarceration. This act proposes the establishment of the FAMILIES Program, which emphasizes community-based supervision instead of jail time, and seeks to provide those sentenced with resources, services, and training to promote successful reintegration into society. Central to the bill is the belief that certain individuals are better served by supportive programs than traditional punitive measures.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB6341 include concerns about the feasibility of adequately implementing such programs, potential opposition from those who believe the bill may undermine accountability within the justice system, and the financial implications of supporting such expansive service offerings. Critics may argue for possible inadequacies in the resources allocated, or express skepticism regarding the effectiveness of community-based alternatives compared to traditional punitive approaches. Moreover, ongoing studies focusing on demographic access to these services will be crucial to address disparities and ensure equitable program availability across varied populations.

Companion Bills

US SB3272

Same As FAMILIES Act Finding Alternatives to Mass Incarceration: Lives Improved by Ending Separation Act of 2023

Similar Bills

US SB3272

FAMILIES Act Finding Alternatives to Mass Incarceration: Lives Improved by Ending Separation Act of 2023

PA HB1678

In general administration, providing for earned vocational training and education credit; in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for parole power and for short sentence parole; and, in powers and duties, further providing for consideration of criminal convictions.

PA HB1470

In limitation of time, further providing for six months limitation; in matters affecting government units, further providing for exceptions to sovereign immunity, for limitations on damages and for exceptions to governmental immunity and providing for claims for compensation for wrongful conviction; in general administration, providing for services after wrongful conviction; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of department.

PA HB1042

In general administration, providing for earned vocational training and education credit; in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for parole power and for short sentence parole; and, in powers and duties, further providing for consideration of criminal convictions.

PA SB1179

In Commonwealth services, providing for opportunities for municipal firefighters and volunteer firefighters; establishing the Municipal and Volunteer Firefighter Training and Education Incentive Program and the Municipal and Volunteer Firefighter Training and Education Incentive Fund; imposing duties on the State Fire Advisory Board; imposing penalties; and making an appropriation.

PA HB545

In limitation of time, further providing for six months limitation; in matters affecting government units, further providing for exceptions to sovereign immunity, for limitations on damages and for exceptions to governmental immunity and providing for claims for compensation for wrongful conviction; in general administration, providing for services after wrongful conviction; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of department.

PA SB54

In limitation of time, further providing for six months limitation; in matters affecting government units, further providing for exceptions to sovereign immunity, for limitations on damages and for exceptions to governmental immunity and providing for claims for compensation for wrongful conviction; in general administration, providing for services after wrongful conviction; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of department.

PA SB791

In limitation of time, further providing for six months limitation; in matters affecting government units, further providing for exceptions to sovereign immunity, for limitations on damages and for exceptions to governmental immunity and providing for claims for compensation for wrongful conviction; in general administration, providing for services after wrongful conviction; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of department.