criminal-justice-reform
High fees, long waits cast shadow over new criminal expungement laws
More states are making it easier for residents to clear or seal their criminal records. The effort has drawn bipartisan support, as lawmakers across the political spectrum say it will help people find jobs and housing, in turn boosting local economies and reducing reliance on social services. “Folks that get out of jail or prison […]
Expediting pardons is good for Pennsylvania | Opinion
By Andrea Lindsay Last week, the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons (BOP) announced updates to its “expedited review” program for pardon applicants, promising to deliver pardons to more people, sooner. This program adopts several of the expedited review tracks proposed in Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity’s (PLSE) 2022 report Expediting Pardons in Pennsylvania, which I authored, […]
Pa.’s probation reform bill actually weaponizes it | Michael Coard
Yes, there's an urgent need to fix a flawed system. This equally flawed bill isn't it.
‘Long time coming’: Pa. Senate passes probation reform bill | Wednesday Morning Coffee
The bipartisan bill now heads to the state House.
He got caught up in the probation system. Why a new fix could help | Friday Morning Coffee
A long-sought probation reform bill cleared a Senate committee on Thursday.
N.J. bail reform panel recommends stricter rules for repeat offenders
The report hails New Jersey’s bail reform as a success.
New probation guidelines for people living with substance use disorder a promising start | Opinion
Instead of punishment, the change offers treatment and hope
Expanding clean slate creates real second chances, alleviates workforce shortages | Opinion
Expanded record clearance will help facilitate employment, putting more money in the pockets of consumers and communities.
Report: Pa. ranks 13th nationwide for mass punishment | Friday Morning Coffee
The new data comes as policymakers are set to try again on probation reform.
What I want for moms this Mother’s Day | Opinion
Mothers are due improvements in areas like criminal justice, employment and health.
Stand your ground? How a simple mistake can get you shot or killed | Opinion
‘Stand your ground’ laws empower armed citizens to defend property with violence.
Philly to pay record settlement for police misconduct in 2020 protests
Mayor Jim Kenney said the pain and trauma caused by a legacy of systemic racism and police brutality against Black and brown Philadelphians is immeasurable.