First Step Act of 2018

The First Step Act of 2018, also known as Bill 115 s 756, is a bipartisan criminal justice reform bill that was signed into law on December 21, 2018. The bill aims to reduce recidivism rates and improve rehabilitation programs for federal prisoners.

One key provision of the First Step Act is the expansion of the "good time credit" program, which allows prisoners to earn credits towards early release by participating in rehabilitation programs. The bill also includes provisions to increase access to job training and educational programs for inmates, with the goal of helping them successfully reenter society upon release.

Additionally, the First Step Act includes reforms to the federal sentencing system, such as reducing mandatory minimum sentences for certain nonviolent offenses and giving judges more discretion in sentencing. The bill also addresses disparities in sentencing for crack cocaine offenses, which have disproportionately affected minority communities. Overall, the First Step Act is aimed at promoting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates among federal prisoners, while also addressing some of the inequities in the federal sentencing system. The bill has been praised for its bipartisan support and its potential to make a positive impact on the criminal justice system in the United States.