Contact:
Tripp Laino, 202-999-4273
tlaino@famm.org

FAMM blasts introduction of billion-dollar mandatory minimum bills in Pennsylvania

Harrisburg – FAMM Pennsylvania State Policy Director Celeste Trusty released the following statement in response to HB 726, HB 1850, HB 1851, and HB 1852, currently being considered by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives:

“These bills are a misguided attempt by lawmakers to interrupt the noticeable progress Pennsylvania has made since eliminating mandatory minimum gun and drug sentences. They don’t deter crime and are outrageously expensive — and there’s decades of research to prove this.

If the goal is making communities safer, and not simply appearing tough on crime, there are countless better ways to spend taxpayer money. Pennsylvania cannot afford the #BillionDollarBill, or any mandatory minimum legislation.”

For nearly three decades, FAMM has united the voices of affected families, the formerly incarcerated, and a range of stakeholders and advocates to fight for a more fair and effective justice system. FAMM’s focus on ending a one-size-fits-all punishment structure has led to reforms to sentencing and prison policies in 6 states and is paving the way to programs that support rehabilitation for the 94% of all prisoners who will return to our neighborhoods one day.

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FAMM is a national nonpartisan advocacy organization that promotes fair and effective criminal justice policies that safeguard taxpayer dollars and keep our communities safe. Founded in 1991, FAMM is helping transform America’s criminal justice system by uniting the voices of impacted families and individuals and elevating the issues all across the country.