Good Behavior Sentence Reductions (H 7112A, S 2179A)

Despite Affiliate testimony in opposition, the General Assembly approved a bill to severely limit the ability of certain inmates to accrue “good time” reductions of their sentences.  In addition to promoting good behavior by prisoners, “good time” provides an important incentive to prisoners to participate in treatment and educational programs, potentially reducing their recidivism rates.  “Good time” is also a vital preventative against prison overcrowding, and in fact was implemented only four years ago when the ACI came close to maximum capacity, and Rhode Island was faced with adopting a productive solution, or releasing prisoners.  Although the ACLU and the Office of the Public Defender asked Governor Chafee to veto this legislation, he signed it into law in June.   Read our letter to the House here.