During Louisiana’s two-week-long special session, lawmakers spent a portion of that time debating sweeping changes that could determine how long certain incarcerated people remain in prison and when, or if, they would be allowed a second chance at freedom.
One bill, signed by Landry Tuesday, effectively eliminates parole for anyone convicted after Aug. 1, with few exceptions — including groups for whom it is constitutionally required, such as those who were sentenced to life terms as juveniles. The governor also approved a measure that reduces the amount of “good time credit” that prisoners can accumulate to shave time off their sentence.
upporters say the new laws will reduce instances of inmates only serving a “fraction of their sentence” and, hopefully, decrease recidivism. Critics say the legislation won’t deter crime, will cost the state millions as it continues to house inmates who could be paroled, and could create less incentive for good behavior and involvement in programs designed to help former inmates succeed in the outside world.
Landry also signed a bill allowing residents 18 and older to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. The law will go into effect July 4.
Among legislation awaiting Landry’s approval are proposals to increase the penalty for carjackings, treating 17-year-olds who commit a crime as adults and publishing court minutes for youth accused of violent crimes. A second signing ceremony is scheduled to occur Wednesday afternoon.
Spurred by violent crime plaguing urban areas in the state, Louisiana’s debates during the special session echo conversations happening in statehouses across the country — including over how long someone should go to prison, how to handle juvenile offenders and if and when those incarcerated deserve a second chance.
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One bill, signed by Landry Tuesday, effectively eliminates parole for anyone convicted after Aug. 1, with few exceptions — including groups for whom it is constitutionally required, such as those who were sentenced to life terms as juveniles. The governor also approved a measure that reduces the amount of “good time credit” that prisoners can accumulate to shave time off their sentence.
upporters say the new laws will reduce instances of inmates only serving a “fraction of their sentence” and, hopefully, decrease recidivism. Critics say the legislation won’t deter crime, will cost the state millions as it continues to house inmates who could be paroled, and could create less incentive for good behavior and involvement in programs designed to help former inmates succeed in the outside world.
Landry also signed a bill allowing residents 18 and older to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. The law will go into effect July 4.
Among legislation awaiting Landry’s approval are proposals to increase the penalty for carjackings, treating 17-year-olds who commit a crime as adults and publishing court minutes for youth accused of violent crimes. A second signing ceremony is scheduled to occur Wednesday afternoon.
Spurred by violent crime plaguing urban areas in the state, Louisiana’s debates during the special session echo conversations happening in statehouses across the country — including over how long someone should go to prison, how to handle juvenile offenders and if and when those incarcerated deserve a second chance.
Louisiana governor signs bills that expand death row execution methods and concealed carry
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry has approved 11 bills Tuesday, including expanding death row execution methods, concealed carry of a gun without a permit and legislation that effectively eliminates parole for most jailed in the future.
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