Issue: Prisons are overcrowded, the population is overrepresented by people of color, there are a high number of drug offenders, there are mental health issues, and it is not a rehabilitative experience.

Solutions: 

• Provide appropriate court based on circumstances, as there are unique issues to address (Drug, veterans, mental wellness, violent crimes, etc.)
• Create a scored assessment to identify individuals that qualify for diversion programs (ex., a doctor provides a recommendation). This minimizes the bias of the judge or prosecutor’s opinion on sentencing time and provides young people with the opportunity to still be productive members of society without stigma and bias upon release for minor offenses.
• Create a system of mandatory sentencing and maximum sentences for non-violent offenses that are equal across the country, and do not allow judges to have so much power in sentencing.
• Legalize marijuana across the country. Individuals in Georgia are still being incarcerated for possession of marijuana, while recreational marijuana use is legal in over 20 states. This drug has proven to help individuals cope with a number of health issues, including veterans who struggle with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, patients going through cancer treatments, and other medical issues. It’s time to stop the criminalization and keep people out of jail for minor infractions.
• Create a prison system that is a real rehabilitative experience. Fix the ways the prison is designed so inmates are not prone to becoming gang members or other self-preservation measures that usually make someone worse. Programs should instill values and life-changing opportunities.