LPP Calls on USSC to Enact Further Drug Sentencing Reform and Supervised Release Changes
The Last Prisoner Project (LPP) has submitted a formal comment to the U.S. Sentencing Commission (USSC), advocating for critical changes to federal drug sentencing guidelines and supervised release policies. LPP’s recommendations aim to reduce overly punitive sentencing practices, promote rehabilitation, and improve public safety.
Reforming Supervised Release
LPP supports proposed amendments granting courts greater discretion in imposing and modifying supervised release. Overly rigid supervision can create unnecessary barriers to successful reintegration, increasing the likelihood of recidivism. Key recommendations include:
- Individualized assessments: Courts should tailor supervised release terms to the specific needs of each individual.
- Elimination of unnecessary supervision: LPP urges the removal of mandatory supervised release requirements when not explicitly required by statute.
- Early termination of supervision: Encouraging courts to assess whether continued supervision is necessary after one year, reducing unnecessary burdens on individuals and the justice system.
Reducing Drug Sentences
LPP also calls for major reforms to the Drug Quantity Table, advocating for reductions in base offense levels across all substances, with additional reductions for cannabis and psychedelics due to their increasing medical recognition and evolving legal status.
- Lowering the highest base offense level to 30 (or lower): Research consistently shows long prison sentences do not improve public safety and can actually increase recidivism.
- Proportional reductions across all drug types: Harsh sentencing has not been an effective deterrent, and a more balanced approach is needed.
- Additional reductions for cannabis and psychedelics: Given their lower risk profiles and medical potential, sentences for these substances should be significantly reduced.
Addressing Low-Level Drug Offenses
LPP supports a six-level sentence reduction for individuals convicted of low-level trafficking roles. Many involved in minor drug-related offenses are individuals with limited economic opportunities, and excessive sentences do little to address the root causes of their involvement.
Retroactive Application of Sentencing Reforms
Currently, approximately 63,000 people are serving federal sentences for drug-related offenses, many under outdated guidelines. LPP urges the Commission to apply any sentencing reductions retroactively, allowing individuals already incarcerated to benefit from these long-overdue reforms.
LPP commends the USSC for considering these reforms and urges them to take bold action. By implementing these changes, the Commission can help reduce mass incarceration, promote fairness, and allocate resources toward more effective public safety strategies.
