Via Silvia on Facebook, here's something I didn't know: current California law allows youth under 18 to be sentenced to life imprisonment with no chance of parole. This is not done in countries outside the United States, and it seems to be one of those laws that is more about moral posturing than actually protecting society, delivering justice, or rehabilitating criminals. SB 399 is an attempt to reform that law and create a review process that would allow the possibility of reduction of sentences for those who committed crimes before they were 18 and who demonstrate maturity and change. It's coming in front of the appropriations committee on May 11th. Now would be a good time to exert what pressure you can on the California State Senate. You can start here to look for ideas. I emailed Loni Hancock, my State Senator.
"Support passage of CA SB 399"
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