Press Releases
FAMM releases comment as Sentencing Commission amendments go into effect
WASHINGTON – FAMM General Counsel Mary Price released the following statement about the United States Sentencing Commission’s amendments expanding federal compassionate release grounds that take effect today.
“We are very glad to welcome the Sentencing Commission’s thoughtful amendments to compassionate release eligibility, which go into effect today,” Price said. “Thanks to the Commission, more people – including some serving overly long sentences they wouldn’t receive today and those who have suffered assault while incarcerated – will have a chance to benefit from one of the most important tools in our federal justice system.”
Earlier this year, the Commission adopted a slate of amendments enlarging the list of “extraordinary and compelling reasons” that might warrant early release consideration. They cover inadequate medical care, sexual and/or physical abuse while incarcerated, infectious disease outbreaks, and more. Those changes take effect today.
FAMM advocated for these changes, and in particular, for victims of assault, and those serving excessive sentences that can no longer be imposed. FAMM testified before the United States Sentencing Commission in support of the amendments and facilitated the testimony of three directly impacted advocates.
Learn more about the new compassionate release grounds in FAMM’s explainer.
For more than 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 has led the fight to reform extreme mandatory sentencing laws and to promote rehabilitation and dignity for all people in prison, 94 percent of whom 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 safely reduce incarceration, save taxpayer dollars, and keep families together. Founded in 1991, FAMM has secured bold sentencing and prison reform across the country while elevating the voices of directly impacted individuals and families.
For Media Inquiries:
Tripp Laino, 202-999-4273
tlaino@famm.org