Mandatory Minimum Sentences

Last week I did my presentation on the war on drugs. My research indicated there is a big difference when it comes to race and punishment for possession of crack cocaine and powdered cocaine. Today, I read an article about reducing the mandatory minimum sentence for nonviolent crack cocaine drug related charges. If this bill is retroactive to 2010, it may release approximately 8,800 prisoners. America has the greatest number of people in prison compared to other countries. I just question whether or not this will help with overcrowding conditions in our prisons. I believe it is a personal choice when using, possessing and distributing any illicit drug. If a person do not take personal responsibility, he or she will be right back in prison. I just hope a lighter sentence will not indicate a softer criminal justice system. I attached the article below.

http://www.philly.com/philly/opinion/20140211_DN_Editorial__JAIL_BRAKES__New_bill_would_cut_excessive_sentences_and_help_uncrowd_prisons.html