Enacting Principled, Nonpartisan Criminal-Law Reform: A Memo to President-elect Obama

Publication Date: January 2009

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): Brian W. Walsh

Research Area: Justice; Law and ethics

Keywords: Presidential transition; Justice system; Criminal law

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

When it comes to federal criminal-justice reform, advocates and media commentators have typically directed the public's attention to proposed changes in sentencing and incarceration policy that would primarily benefit isolated classes of offenders. Some of these reforms may indeed be needed, but--in accordance with your campaign promise--you should focus your Administration's efforts on principled, nonpartisan reforms that benefit all Americans.