116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Home / Opinion / Letters to the Editor
Letter: Pass legislation to reduce sentences
Rebecca Bergus
Nov. 19, 2016 12:00 am
Donald Trump has voiced a desire to unify our country after this divisive election. A step in that direction would be to urge the leaders in the House and the Senate bring three bills to the floors of Congress.
Sen. Chuck Grassley has sponsored S2123, which would reduce the sentences for some non-violent drug offenders and help reduce recidivism. This bill has the support of both Democrats and Republicans, including Sen. Joni Ernst, and would easily pass.
The House has two bills (HR3713 and HR759) that would do the same. They are supported by Rep. Dave Loebsack, Rep. Rod Blum and Rep. David Young.
Passing this legislation would demonstrate a desire to heal the wounds caused by mass incarceration.
Rebecca Bergus
Iowa City
Opinion content represents the viewpoint of the author or The Gazette editorial board. You can join the conversation by submitting a letter to the editor or guest column or by suggesting a topic for an editorial to editorial@thegazette.com