I am writing to ask for your support of SB 1646 by Sen. Dave Rader.
As it currently stands, Oklahomans can face prison sentences 79% higher than the rest of the country for certain offenses. Our state’s sentencing practices have led to budget-busting levels on spending on corrections by the state legislature.
SB 1646 will:
• Take over 100 years of crimes created by the legislature and categorize them with similar offenses.
• Set standardized sentencing ranges for like-crimes.
• Provide judges, juries and prosecutors with proper enhanced sentencing options.
• Protect public safety by maintaining the current system of punishment for the most heinous and violent crimes.
• Make a long-term impact on budgeting by reducing the need to spend money on corrections, freeing that money up to be spent on treatment and other needs.
It is far past time that we classify our crimes in statute and set appropriate sentencing ranges for those offenses. As we all know, for justice to truly be served- the punishment must fit the crime. GOING FORWARD, THIS MODEST REFORM WOULD EQUATE TO AN AVERAGE OF .5 YEARS LESS TIME SERVED FOR THE PRISON POPULATION. SB 1646 offers a better path forward for Oklahoma and I urge you to support the measure.