The conference committee released the compromises and many reforms to the Massachusetts justice and corrections systems on Friday, March 24. Their fellow state representatives and senators will vote YES or NO, with no opportunity for amendments, and the bill will go to Governor Baker, who has not yet stated his position. Advocates are hopeful we would have sufficient votes to override a veto, if necessary.
Below are highlights of the comprehensive bill, which are mostly positive steps in the right direction. There are a few glaring contradictions, such as increasing mandatory minimum sentencing for opiate trafficking and new laws to protect police officers.
For greater details, open this 7-page PDF:CORRECT_Omnibusbill_2018
HIGHLIGHTS of the Conference Committee’s decisions
Decriminalize minor offenses
Divert minor offenses away from prosecution/incarceration
Reform Bail to reduce unnecessary incarceration
Repeal/limit mandatory minimums for non-opiate, non-weight retail drug offenses
Strengthen minimum mandatories for opiate trafficking
Strengthen Protections for Public Safety
Reduce solitary confinement
Generally improve prison conditions
Release prisoners who are permanently incapacitated and pose no safety risk
Make it easier for people to get back on their feet
Take better care of juveniles and young adults
Improve transparency of the criminal justice system
Better protect women in the criminal justice system
Reduce and remedy errors of justice