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January 1, Ex-Con State Legislator Advocates for Judicial Leniency in Sentence Reduction Bill

Published

11 months ago

December 26, 2023

Photo by Khashayar Kouchpeydeh on Unsplash

A Washington state lawmaker and ex-convict, Democratic state Rep. Tarra Simmons, is pushing legislation that would grant judges in the Evergreen State clemency powers and the ability to reduce the length of sentences for violent offenders.

Simmons has a history of fighting for the rights of people with felony convictions and promoting “racial equity.”

The Judicial Discretion Act would “authorize sentencing courts to review lengthy sentences upon a showing that a person’s original sentence no longer serves the interests of justice,” according to the bill text. Under the act, a judge would be permitted to adjust a convict’s sentence regardless of the facts of the case, provided that a new sentence is no more severe than the initial sentence.

Money saved from not incarcerating these people, including reported violent offenders, will cover the cost of additional proceedings, according to the legislation.

“The legislature finds that long-term incarceration disproportionately impacts poor communities and communities of color. The legislature further finds that an expansive body of research demonstrates that lengthy sentences can increase, rather than reduce, recidivism,” the bill reads.

“The legislature further finds that the potential to reduce a sentence encourages incarcerated individuals to engage in good behavior and to take advantage of rehabilitative programming.”

Additionally, the bill states that “because the cost of long-term incarceration is substantial and the state must use its resources responsibly, providing judges the opportunity to modify lengthy sentences in the interests of justice will result in significant cost savings to the state.”

Victims or family members of victims have the option to “present a statement personally or by representation at the hearing” of a convict whose sentence is under review.

Why It Matters (op-ed)

Tarra Simmons’ Judicial Discretion Act is a misguided attempt at criminal justice reform. While well-intentioned, it undermines the very basis of our justice system by granting judges blanket authority to reduce sentences for violent offenders.

This legislation is a thinly veiled attempt to pander to the progressive left’s narrative of racial equity. It disregards the importance of holding criminals accountable for their actions and protecting the safety of law-abiding citizens.

Moreover, the argument that reduced sentences lead to cost savings is a dangerous precedent. We cannot prioritize financial interests over public safety. The focus should be on effective rehabilitation programs, not simply cutting sentences short.

Finally, the impact on victims and their families must not be forgotten. This bill sends a demoralizing message that their suffering is secondary to the state’s fiscal concerns.

As our loyal readers, we encourage you to share your thoughts and opinions on this issue. Let your voice be heard and join the discussion below.

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Wyatt Porter

Wyatt Porter is a seasoned writer and constitutional scholar who brings a rugged authenticity and deep-seated patriotism to his work. Born and raised in small-town America, Wyatt grew up on a farm, where he learned the value of hard work and the pride that comes from it. As a conservative voice, he writes with the insight of a historian and the grit of a lifelong laborer, blending logic with a sharp wit. Wyatt’s work captures the struggles and triumphs of everyday Americans, offering readers a fresh perspective grounded in traditional values, individual freedom, and an unwavering love for his country.