People gather at State Capitol in Downtown Phoenix as lawmakers consider prison reform bill
PHOENIX (FOX 10) -- More than a hundred people turn out to push for prison reform, as state lawmakers are considering a bill that could shorten prison sentences for those with good behavior.
Those who support the bill gathered at the Arizona State Capitol in Downtown Phoenix, calling for lawmakers to pass the law. It was a march and candlelight vigil for those behind bars, and many in attendance were once incarcerated. There are also others who were there for their loved ones, hoping that change will be delivered by Arizona lawmakers in the form of House Bill 2270.
If approved, HB 2270 would allow people who are in prison for nonviolent, nonserious offenses to earn one day off for every day service, and reunited with their families and the communities.
"HB 2270 will give people incentive to start programming from day one, give hope and a catalyst for change," said Kara Williams. Williams, who has gone to prison twice for a drug offense, knows first hand that this would make a difference.
ACLU officials say they know it works, because other states have successful rates as well, and they hope lawmakers in Arizona will get onboard.
"Arizona is one of only two states in which everyone incarcerated regardless of their offense, regardless of their behavior in prison, they must serve at least 85% of their sentence," said Analise Ortiz with ACLU Arizona.