Long Island inmate advocates rally in Albany for sentencing reform, other bills

The Second Look Act would allow inmates in good standing who have served 10 years or more to be eligible for early release, including those who have committed violent crimes.

Carmen Grant

May 13, 2024, 11:36 PM

Updated 202 days ago

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A group of Long Islanders advocating for inmates were among those rallying Monday in Albany in support of several bills, including sentencing reform.
"This means a chance for incarcerated people to come home sooner," says Serena Martin, of New Hour for Women and Children.
The Second Look Act would allow inmates in good standing who have served 10 years or more to be eligible for early release, including those who have committed violent crimes.
The bill has its critics.
"I think if it's murder, no way. There should be no second look for murder, that's wrong," says Barbara Connelly, of the group Parents and Others Survivors of Murdered Victims Outreach.
Long Island advocates also want lawmakers to pass “The Care Act” which would mandate maternal services for female inmates during and after pregnancy while behind bars.
Both are still being considered by New York lawmakers.