What is the new law in California for inmates in 2023?

In the continuous pursuit of criminal justice reform, California has enacted a new law in 2023 that seeks to rectify some of the state’s most punitive sentencing enhancements.

Although it has drawn controversy due to fears that it could lead to the early release of some of the state’s worst offenders, the purpose of this law is to provide a fairer and more equitable justice system.

Did SB 483 pass in California?

Yes, Senate Bill 483 (SB 483) passed in California and went into effect on January 1, 2022​. This legislation is part of a broader movement in the state to roll back some of the harsher sentencing enhancements that have kept individuals incarcerated for extended periods.

SB 483 aims to shorten sentences by reassessing those with enhancements under sections 11370.2 or 667.5(b), extending relief to a larger group

Unlike other recent amendments, SB 483 goes a step further by declaring qualifying enhancements under Section 11370.2 and 667.5(b) to be “legally invalid,” meaning that judges and prosecutors cannot prevent a defendant from having a resentencing hearing​​.

What is the First Step Act 2023?

While the First Step Act was originally passed in 2018, it continues to evolve and has seen significant updates in 2023. The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has released a policy implementing changes to how time credits are calculated.

These updates allow inmates to see potential Federal Time Credits (FTCs) they may earn over the course of their sentence. Inmates can now earn credit while in administrative detention or in the community, as long as they continue to participate in available programming and comply with all rules and procedures of pre-release custody​​.

What is the 3 strikes law in California 2023?

The three strikes law in California is one of the state’s most controversial sentencing policies. As of my last update in September 2021, the law mandates a life sentence for certain repeat offenders with multiple serious or violent felony convictions.

Unfortunately, I was unable to find current 2023 information on this law, but if you want me to dig a little deeper just let me know in the comments below.

What does it mean for California’s future?

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The passage of SB 483 and the updates to the First Step Act represent a shift in California’s approach to criminal justice. By reducing the impact of sentencing enhancements and giving inmates more opportunities to earn time credits, these changes could lead to shorter sentences for many individuals.

These changes are part of a larger trend toward a more rehabilitative, rather than punitive, approach to criminal justice. They could lead to lower prison populations, reduced costs for taxpayers, and better opportunities for reintegration for those who have served their time.

Do other states plan on doing this?

Criminal justice reform is a national conversation, and many states are observing California’s legislative changes closely. However, the specifics of policy reform can vary greatly from state to state, reflecting the unique political, social, and economic contexts of each jurisdiction.

As such, it’s likely that other states may adopt similar reforms, but the exact nature of those changes will depend on a variety of factors.

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