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April is Second Chance Month: Support the Second Look Sentencing Act

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Michigan, you have a sentencing problem.

Now, we have an opportunity to address the challenges of excessive sentencing through a conservative and pragmatic solution: the Second Look Sentencing Act. This proposed legislation, approved by the House Criminal Justice Committee last year, would allow individuals who have served at least 20 years to petition their original court for a sentence reduction.

This policy offers a chance for those who have shown growth and rehabilitation to seek a second chance, reducing the financial and social burdens of long-term incarceration.

For a deeper perspective on the urgency of passing the Second Look Sentencing Act, read this compelling op-ed in the Detroit Free Press.

Stay informed and support this critical legislation by connecting with the American Friends Service Committee.

Members of the Second Look Coalition pictured in Lansing Michigan in 2024, photo courtesy of MI-CEMI.

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2 responses to “April is Second Chance Month: Support the Second Look Sentencing Act”

  1. Jill Willsey Avatar
    Jill Willsey

    Hello , I am reaching out for help regarding my son who is incarcerated @ Gus Harrison Correctional. He was arrested at 21 years old and is now 30 he has served 10 years. I am asking for guidance, advice and direction to apply or petition the court for an earlier release date. His family and I feel he deserves a 2nd chance at life, He is very remorseful for what mistake he made, thank god everyday noone was hurt and the victime was paid back her momey, he was young and made a stupid mistake on alcoholo and pills they day of the incident. theis was not my sons character he is from a good loving family and has Adhd issues. he was brought up in school, church and played sports. He has family support to help him get started on a 2nd chance at life. Please help.
    any suggestions would be so very helpful . thank you for your open heart listening , help and advice. sincerely
    Jill willsey

    Reply
    1. Kenneth Avatar
      Kenneth

      Unfortunately it is very difficult in Michigan to get a court to reconsider a sentence. Your son would need to argue a legal reason that the current sentencing decision was not made properly, or that the court didn’t have right information at the time of sentencing. I recommend that you talk to a lawyer about this option.

      Is your son eligible for parole, or will he be in the future? In this case, the parole board will consider his release. Family, friends, and other people who know your son can write letters to the parole board in advance of their deliberations to show evidence of how much your son has changed and how much support he has toward being successful after release.

      Reply

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