Title: Establishes New Guidelines to Reduce Probation Sentences
Vote to pass a bill that establishes new guidelines to reduce probationary sentences and re-integrate individuals on probation into society.
Authorizes courts to attach probation on a defendant so that they can meet childcare responsibilities and devotion to a certain job, study or vocational training (Sec. 1).
Requires courts to allow the defendant to temporarily leave the court’s jurisdiction unless doing so threatens the defendant or the public’s safety (Sec. 1).
Prohibits courts from extending or revoking a probationary period because the defendant is unable to pay any outstanding fines (Sec. 2).
Prohibits courts from sentencing a defendant to prison time if probation is revoked, unless the defendant (Sec. 2):
Commits a crime that is sexual in nature;
Commits a crime that is assaultive;
Commits a crime involving the possession or control of a weapon;
Proves to be too dangerous for lack of imprisonment; and
Proves to be a threat to public safety.
Establishes the following sentences for violating probation (Sec. 2):
A maximum of 14 days for a first technical violation;
A maximum of 30 days for a second violation; and
Any alternative sentencing available for a third or subsequent violation.
Specifies that a defendant will be eligible for a probation review conference after they complete three years of probation following a misdemeanor, or five years for a felony (Sec. 2).
Specifies that defendants will be eligible for a conference six months prior to the date they would be eligible, if they hold at least a high school diploma (Sec. 2).
Prohibits defendants from being eligible for a conference if (Sec. 2):
The defendant commits any of the aforementioned violations within nine months of their conference date;
The defendant commits any other offense within six months of their conference date; or
The defendant was convicted of a misdemeanor or felony while incarcerated or on probation.
Specifies that this bill takes effect on January 1, 2021 (Sec. 8).
Title: Establishes New Guidelines to Reduce Probation Sentences