Center for Prison Reform Newsletter

CPR Newsletter
October 23, 2014

Hello <<First Name>>,

This week, the reauthorization of the Second Chance Act has passed its first hurdle, recently earning the approval of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The backlash against John Grisham's recent comments on child pornography sentencing may be undue, according to one NPR Contributor.

Examine California's Proposition 47, a contested item in November's elections, and find out why prison reform is becoming one of the biggest issues in the Illinois Governor's race.

In our video of the week, a local news editorial takes a look at the wisdom of prison reform.

Want to be involved? Join our next weekly national call on October 22nd from 2-2:30PM EST. Ring (605) 562-3140 and type in code 408388#.

Edwina Rogers

Edwina Rogers
Executive Director
Center For Prison Reform

Second Chance Act Approved by Senate Judicary Committee

The SJC recently approved the reauthorization of 2008's Second Chance Act, which provides federal funding to a variety of crucial state programs that target recidivism.

What is next for the bill?

Grisham: Looking isn't Touching Backlash

When John Grisham spoke out about overly harsh sentencing for viewers of child pornography when compared to child molestors, he was met with criticism and controversy.

Why one woman feels he was right

California's Prop 47

This new legislation on the November ballot in California could change lives by reducing many felonies to misdemeanors, including those of 10,000 inmates currently behind bars. Will voters opt for safer neighborhoods and schools?

Get to know Prop 47

Reform Hot issue in IL Gov. Race

Incumbent Pat Quinn and Republican challenger Bruce Rauner are quickly making prison reform one of the deciding issues in Illinois' race for Governor. From criticism and attack ads to debates, reform is a central issue.

Will prison reform decide the race?

Video of the Week

In this week's video, WISC Editorial Director Neil Heinen discusses the wisdom of prison and why it is necessary to create lasting and meaningful change in the United State's criminal justice system.

Watch the full editorial