criminal-justice-reform

High fees, long waits cast shadow over new criminal expungement laws

BY: - December 4, 2023

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 […]

COMMENTARY

Expediting pardons is good for Pennsylvania | Opinion

BY: - August 4, 2023

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, […]

COMMENTARY
Flashing lights on a police car

Pa.’s probation reform bill actually weaponizes it | Michael Coard

BY: - July 9, 2023

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

BY: - June 28, 2023

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

BY: - June 23, 2023

A long-sought probation reform bill cleared a Senate committee on Thursday.

The Joint Committee on Criminal Justice Reform found those facing charges from multiple arrests were far more likely to face rearrest pretrial. (Photo by New Jersey Monitor)

N.J. bail reform panel recommends stricter rules for repeat offenders

BY: - June 12, 2023

The report hails New Jersey’s bail reform as a success.

COMMENTARY
(Getty Images)

New probation guidelines for people living with substance use disorder a promising start | Opinion

BY: - June 11, 2023

Instead of punishment, the change offers treatment and hope

COMMENTARY

Expanding clean slate creates real second chances, alleviates workforce shortages | Opinion

BY: - May 23, 2023

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

BY: - May 19, 2023

The new data comes as policymakers are set to try again on probation reform.

COMMENTARY
Аdopted daughter with her mother

What I want for moms this Mother’s Day | Opinion

BY: - May 14, 2023

Mothers are due improvements in areas like criminal justice, employment and health.

COMMENTARY

Stand your ground? How a simple mistake can get you shot or killed | Opinion

BY: - April 24, 2023

‘Stand your ground’ laws empower armed citizens to defend property with violence.

Philly to pay record settlement for police misconduct in 2020 protests

BY: - March 21, 2023

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.