Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Ayofemi Kirby
(202) 226-9776
Ayofemi.kirby@mail.house.gov

Congressional Black Caucus Chair Marcia L. Fudge’s Statement on the Department of Justice's New Policies to Curtail Mandatory Minimum Sentencing

Congressional Black Caucus Chair Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) released the following statement on Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr.’s announcement that the Department of Justice will implement a new set of policies intended to alleviate disparities in the criminal justice system and decrease the nations’ prison population:

“I welcome the announcement by Attorney General Holder to provide meaningful sentencing reform that is long overdue. It is well documented that a disproportionate share of stiff mandatory sentences for low-level, non-violent crimes typically impact low income populations and communities of color. Our prison population has exploded and taxpayers have been forced to pick up the tab, providing at best inconclusive findings that suggest long sentences increase public safety. In the meantime, families have been torn apart and the costs to our society are that we end up with a harsh, one-size-fits-all criminal justice system. The measures introduced by the Attorney General will provide a fair and balanced approach to sentencing while improving protection of our nation’s vulnerable communities.

“The Congressional Black Caucus supports a thorough review of our criminal justice system and will continue advocating for a comprehensive review of sentencing guidelines, effective alternatives to prison such as drug treatment programs that have demonstrated success, and other steps that lead to lasting and just reform.”

###