Prison Reform: The War on Drugs and Public Safety

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The US has more people in prison than China, a country that’s 4 times larger. Now, there’s bipartisan support for cutting the sentences of almost half of all current federal prisoners. But some hardliners still maintain that tough sentencing is the reason that crime is on the decline. We’ll hear conflicting opinions.

The US has more people in prison than China, a country that’s 4 times larger. Even many conservatives say it’s not worth the cost. Pennsylvania and Texas are among 35 States enacting reforms by declaring a partial truce in the nationwide War on Drugs. Now, there’s bipartisan support for cutting the sentences of almost half of all current federal prisoners. But some hardliners still maintain that tough sentencing is the reason that crime is on the decline. We’ll hear conflicting opinions.

Also, Congress seeks common ground on improving health care at the Veterans Administration, and will the trial of a former Governor change politics in Virginia?

Banner Image Credit: Bob Jagendorf

From this Episode:

Credits

Host:

Warren Olney

Producers:

Claire Martin, Evan George, Gideon Brower