The Dilemma of Endorsing the FIRST STEP Act During the Trump Administration
While the Center for American Progress supports the FIRST STEP Act, passing the bill in Congress will be easier than counting on the Trump administration to implement it.
Mass Incarceration
The Need for Sentencing Reform for Women and Mothers
There is a dire need for smart sentencing reform—particularly for women and mothers who are trapped in prison for economic crimes.
Locking Up Our Own
Michele and Igor sit down with James Forman Jr., a public defender and author, and discuss the touch-on-crime policies that resulted in disproportionate numbers of black men in prison.
Why Prison Reform Is Not Enough to Fix the U.S. Criminal Justice System
The Trump administration’s rhetorical support for reforming America’s prisons is contradicted by its policies to incarcerate more people for longer periods of time.
Education Opportunities in Prison Are Key to Reducing Crime
Federal and state funding should support and expand prison education if the United States hopes to reduce its rapidly growing prison population.
Congress Can Lead on Criminal Justice Reform Through Funding Choices
While the Trump administration slashes support for criminal justice reform, Congress can push the country toward smart criminal justice policies through appropriations.
The Case for Paid Apprenticeships Behind Bars
Paid apprenticeships could help ease returning citizens’ labor market re-entry and benefit them, their families, and society.
Beyond ‘Law and Order’
With Jeff Sessions as attorney general, dangerous and outdated “law and order” policies would stymie criminal justice reform.
Disabled Behind Bars
As bipartisan momentum around criminal justice reform continues to grow in Congress and across the United States, policymakers must include disability as a critical component of reform.
Restoring Justice
Several states and local jurisdictions have updated their juvenile justice policies to ensure that the disproportionate numbers of LGBT youth in the juvenile justice system are treated with dignity and respect. These model policies provide a blueprint for safeguarding all youth in the juvenile justice system.