Press Release

For Media Inquiries:
Tripp Laino, 202-999-4273
tlaino@famm.org

FAMM releases statement after Virginia Senate passes bill eliminating mandatory minimums

RICHMOND – FAMM Deputy Director of Policy Tinsae Gebriel released the following statement after the Virginia House and Senate each passed separate bills aimed at eliminating the state’s mandatory minimums:

“This is a truly thrilling moment for Virginia,” Gebriel said. “Not only is this supported by years of research, it’s also backed by the public, as well as the state’s crime commission. We’re hoping for a smooth process of reconciliation between the House and Senate bills that aligns with the crime commission’s recommendation to eliminate all mandatory minimums, and for it to quickly reach Governor Northam’s desk for signing.”

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 at the state and federal level 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.