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H.R. 7089, The Federal Prison Work Incentive Act of 2008 (205 comments ↓)
- This item is from the 110th Congress (2007-2008) and is no longer current. Comments, voting, and wiki editing have been disabled, and the cost/savings estimate has been frozen.
H.R. 7089 would amend title 18, United States Code, to restore the former system of good time allowances toward service of Federal prison terms.
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Visitor Comments
Xiomara
November 18, 2008, 7:17pm (report abuse)I feel that this bill needs to be passed. If they are abiding by the rules within the building and showing the improvement that they have changed, then i feel they should be given a second chance. These people are still people and they have the right to be given second chances and say they paid their debt to society and learn their lesson.
Gopuram
November 18, 2008, 9:28pm (report abuse)I strongly agree with the other comments that are posted on this site; This Bill should pass because everyone deserves to have a second chance. Being a close family member of a federal prisoner, I know first hand of the stress that it puts on a family; he isn't the only one that is serving this time, his family is serving it right along with him. This Bill needs to pass so that he and other inmates can be reunited with their families
Teisha
November 19, 2008, 10:12am (report abuse)Please vote for this bill.
teisha
November 19, 2008, 10:13am (report abuse)Please vote for this bill.
Carolyn Stanford
November 19, 2008, 10:27am (report abuse)Let's get President Obama to look at this bill. This bill would save millions in BOP overtime and overcrowding of federal prisons. 30- years is unfair sentencing for a non-violent offense. It is time for this bill to be passed; it would be a great contribution and savings to our society. We need our loved ones to come home; we need help from our new president-elect. Thank you, Carolyn
Kenyia
November 19, 2008, 7:47pm (report abuse)Looking at things at an economical perspective, this could lower taxes and we have a lot more serious issues that needs immediate financial attention. We always say that out country is the land of opportunity and the land of dreams. Well most of these inmates need a opportunity presented to them that will allow them to show that they have change, and have learned from past experiences. Most of them are dreaming to be in the arms of their loved ones again, and would talk this opportunity to help others stray away from in negative activities that could lead to prison.
Bill K
November 19, 2008, 8:31pm (report abuse)The state can parole afte 1/2 time, but the Fed requires 85% of the time to be served. My son sis a very stupid non violent thing at 19 and is now serving 20 years. I will be dead by the time he gets out. Not fair to lose someone like this.
TERRY L.
November 22, 2008, 10:34pm (report abuse)This Bill is a good thing,PLease let it happen!
Geraldine
November 24, 2008, 7:28am (report abuse)My son was bearly 18 yo when he was committed to federal prison for 9+ years for robbery. No one was hurt and the money was recovered. This was the first time he had ever gotten in trouble. He always has been a great person, just got with the wrong people at that time. He is now 24 yo and is a wonderful man. His brother is a Marine and been to Iraq twice. We need you to pass this bill, so that these men and women can start a new life, and save the government billions of dollars by not housing them so long. IN THE NAME OF JESUS PLEASE PASS THIS BILL
stacey
November 24, 2008, 11:44am (report abuse)every one deserves a second chance to err is human and a little tolerance could go a long way
Roger
November 24, 2008, 11:21pm (report abuse)i belive that this bill should pass. it will help lower the burdon of taxes we have to pay also concidering the bad state of our econ. now, not to metion that these people being sentance for 20+ years may not get to come out or ever get to see their loved ones as a free person agian.they also deserve a second chance not to metion that prisons are a joke why not try to realy change them if thats what our gov. want wich i doupt it the way the prisons are set up holding some one in a small cell for years does not do anything why not try and do realy reform? such as makeing programs for these people and treatment centers or montering them(parole) i hope that they pass this. and those reading i ask for you'r support.
james
November 24, 2008, 11:31pm (report abuse)all of you supporter need to show it contact your local rep. and ask them to support you i mean they are supost to represent you arent they? you do vote for them we need to understant that with out the people the gov. is nothing! and if we dont get what we want we need to protest and strike and all of that!! becouse this is our country not theirs ours!! this was they whole reason our country was founded from the people united we stand!!
sister
November 25, 2008, 12:14pm (report abuse)i have a sister that is serving 36 month for fist time being in trouble and i have take care of her 4 year old twins who ask for mama everday i think she deserve another chance please help
Tabitha
November 26, 2008, 8:14pm (report abuse)I have a fiance that has been in federal prison for ten years for a non-violent charge. He was 19 when he went and he's 28 now and still there. It's time that he comes home. He has suffered enough. God bless you all that also have loved ones in prison. Let's pray together, ok?
Amy
December 1, 2008, 7:00pm (report abuse)I feel this bill really needs to be passed of course they should do so only allowing it to effect those who really deserve to go home. Too many people are getting away with killing other people because the system is busy locking up kids and young adults for first time offenses and give them 10 years plus. My fiance has 5 years left for a handgun NEVER USED found through an illegal search.
Richard
December 1, 2008, 9:56pm (report abuse)Non-violent criminals spending 15 years in jail is absurd. This has nothing to do with correcting behavior. Pass this bill, and add credence to the hoax that we call our "correctional" system.
Deborah
December 4, 2008, 11:08am (report abuse)It's insane to keep non violent drug offenders in jail at a cost to taxpayers of 25K a year. Let them be with their families earning a living and paying taxes. I'm struggling to keep my family supported while my husband serves four years for pot. He is not the only one doing time, we all are. This bill must pass for the justice system to even have a hope of claiming fairness.
Deborah
December 5, 2008, 10:39am (report abuse)I posted yesterday but I'm reading more of the postings here and can not believe the sanctimonious attitude of some. If you have never been steamrollered by the Fed Gov't and had your life turned upside down, please don't judge. The disparity between state and Fed sentencing is a joke. Drunk drivers, murderers and rapist do less time in the state system (and have the opportunity for parole) than non violent "criminals" in Fed custody. Please pass this bill and return some sanity to the system. Don't judge what you know nothing about and for God's sake have a little understanding and human compassion!
Kitty
December 5, 2008, 10:56am (report abuse)Ditto to every opinion posted. We need to give them a second chance. If they are willing to work in prison, they obviously deserve to be rewarded for their efforts. My husband is a first time offender, got 5 years and is missing his 2 year old son's first years. The sentencing policies need to change, but if they can't do that quickly, at least this would give the people who try to better themselves an incentive to keep going, that there is hope for the future.
Maria
December 5, 2008, 11:33pm (report abuse)This bill is long overdue. Being European, it amazes me how long the non-violent sentences are in the USA. People are given long sentences who would better serve the community by doing volunteer work and pay taxes. Instead, we the tax payers, are carrying the burden of paying for non-violent persons room and board. This bill is a great step in the right direction and I am hopeful that it will pass. I congratulate the author of the bill for having the courage to present this bill.
Rosa
December 7, 2008, 4:54pm (report abuse)Something has to be done. Instead of treatment for drug addiction we are putting non violent drug addicts in prison for an unbelievable length of time. Those being sentenced in a conspiracy is appauling. No proof just hearsay from other drug addicts serving long prison terms trying to reduce their sentences. That is so inhuman what have we all become. With treatment there is hope for change with long prison sentences there is no hope.
Donte
December 8, 2008, 8:25pm (report abuse)please allow this bill to pass.I support this bill 100%,I miss my father.please vote yes on this bill please. HR7089
marquibe smith in nashville
December 12, 2008, 2:19am (report abuse)of course there are those who don't wan't this law passed but every dog has his day. most of you self-righteous pilgrims have the ugliest vices and secrets to hide. i hope you never have to see the inside of a prison or lose a son or daughter to the penal system. free my girl!!
Samuel
December 12, 2008, 10:01pm (report abuse)Everyone makes bad choices. As human beings we have the ability to learn from them. As human beings we also share the capacity for mercy. There are many non-violent offenders serving very severe sentances who have already commited to living honest lives in order to attone for thier mistakes. Still they sit in prison using precious tax dollars when they could be released and allowed to contribute to the economy. This bill is structured to offer a second chance for those who show a willingness to learn from thier mistakes and become productive members of society. Those who do not show the apropriate initiative to return to society before thier long sentance expires will continue to serve time. Please, allow hope for a second chance to those who earn it. Compassion and common sense are together with us in passing this bill.
Tim
December 16, 2008, 10:29am (report abuse)I believe passing this bill is important to give those inmates who have decided that they want to do something positive with their lives and are showing progress on the inside deserve a second chance to get back out here and be a positive addition instead of unnecessary finances being spent on them rather than allowing them to give back and help make a difference in society.
TAB
December 16, 2008, 10:34am (report abuse)I believe passing this bill is important to give those inmates who have decided that they want to do something positive with their lives and are showing progress on the inside deserve a second chance to get back out here and be a positive addition instead of unnecessary finances being spent on them rather than allowing them to give back and help make a difference in society. I believe it will be easy to distinguish which inmates have decided that they want more out of life and want to get back to their families and be productive. There is a program called ROBB (Reaching Out From Behind Bars) that is designed towards preventing youth from ending up in prison. If you read some of the articles in this Newsletter, you will see that passing this bill is truly necessary and will make a big difference in our economy because us tax payers are spending a lot to house prisoners. Prison was supposed to rehabilitate and some inmates have truly been rehabilitated.
ribkaw
December 16, 2008, 2:19pm (report abuse)As a former incarcerated individual it is imparative to give former inmates a 2nd chance to rebuild their lives and contribute to the well being of themselves, their families and society. This is a good thing.
Pls. join the movement to reinstate federal parole. Too many people are dwindling away, serving enormous sentences without chance of parole in the federal prison system.
sister of a love one
December 17, 2008, 11:59pm (report abuse)I think this law needs to pass,there are alot of people that are in there that just did something wrong for the first time.I think a 2nd chance is the right thing for lots of these people.They need to be in programs and not behide bars.Please pass these law.
Father
December 18, 2008, 9:46am (report abuse)I visit every week and believe that most of the ones behind bars need a second chance. I see the way they treat their wives and children and they are ready to return to a new life and a self supporting life style. What I see is more like a day care than anything else.
Renee
December 21, 2008, 9:29pm (report abuse)This law needs to be passed. Inmates who are serving their time productively (not getting into trouble and taking advantage of programs while serving time) should be given the opportunity to go home and contribute to society. They have learned their lessons. They are more valuable at home with their families as providers.
Alex
December 23, 2008, 8:55am (report abuse)There is alot of good people in prison these days,over 50% are first time offenders who have made a mistake and have been punished for decades in prison for comitting a non-violent offense.This bill brings hope to the immates that have behaved good,and commited themself to rehabilitation and educational programs.Lets give them the chance to reunite with their families who are suffering the same consecuence as well.
Charlotte
December 24, 2008, 3:24am (report abuse)Please vote yes, for H.R. 7089
pat
December 26, 2008, 3:48pm (report abuse)please vote yes on this bill yes they make mistakes but they also deserve a second chance in life to get it right
Khan's Girl
December 26, 2008, 6:38pm (report abuse)My best friend has been in prison for almost 10 years and this is his first time. I don't understand how they can keep someone in prison that long for their first time. Please pass the law and allow inmates to come home and get jobs to help support their families. That's why we have alot os struggling single woman. Free their husbands so they can help out. Also, the tax money that it cost is crazy. Please, in Jesus name. God give us chance after chance, why not give someone (non-violent) that is doing good another chance,
Tom
December 29, 2008, 2:25am (report abuse)This bill needs to pass. Please spread the word to all your friends and family members. The federal minimum sentencing guidelines need major reform. Let's hope that the new Obama administration will bring real CHANGE to this country, including this important issue.
norma
December 29, 2008, 1:38pm (report abuse)MY BROTHER HAS BEEN IN PRISON FOR 2 YEARS ALREADY AND I THINK HE DESERVES ANOTHER CHANCE TO REUNITE WITH HIS FAMILY.I THINK THAT THEY SHOULD FOCUSE ON THE REAL CONVICTES.HE MADE BAD CHOICES CAUSE OF HIS FRIEND'S BUT HE'S A REAL GOOD MAN ANY WOMAN WOULD LOVE TO BE WITH HIM HE'S ALL ABOUT RESPECT AND FAMILY ORIENTED.WE CAN'T FINED MEN LIKE THAT ANYMORE.SO PLEASE GIVE THESE MEN/WOMEN ANOTHER CHANCE 85% IS REDICULOUS
mplagman
December 30, 2008, 2:11am (report abuse)Please pass this bill into law and allow the non-violent offenders go home to their families.
his mom
January 1, 2009, 2:45am (report abuse)please give time cuts and good time off. What are we thinking locking non-violent inmates up for many years.This system has to be fixed ! Put- a preson in prison 20 + yrs ? who will they ever live on the out side ? who will help them ? give them a job ,a home, a car. this system has to be fixed.
sara
January 1, 2009, 2:54am (report abuse)BRING OUR LOVE ONES HOME FROM THIS OUR CHILDREN NEED PARENTS TO BE HOME.A NON-VIOLENT CRIME. OUR CHILDREN NOT HAVING A FATHER HOME FOR 15 YRS - DRUGS ARE WRONG. BUT TO TAKE A PERSON'S LIFE - THIS IS THE USALAND OF THE FREE PLEASE PASS THIS BILL.PLEASE, I WORK I PAY TAXES AND MY CHILDREN NEED A FATHER. IT IS VERY HARD ON ME WITH ONE INCOME AND NO HELP WITH 2 BOYS 6 & 9 YES
WENDY
January 1, 2009, 2:59am (report abuse)A broken system that must be fixed
N / V offender locked a way far from home. and money to go see him
This Bill needs to pass.
please help
karen
January 1, 2009, 3:07am (report abuse)what is freedeom with out reform.
if you can't teach a person in a few yrs you are sure not helping locking them away 25 years. this bill needs to pass.
loving wife. with 3 year old child that is father- less
Betty
January 1, 2009, 3:12am (report abuse)I ask of you to pass the bill.
I am a hard working American tax payer and do not like the way my tax dollars are spent on this. gave our children pass this bill.
Jason
January 1, 2009, 3:23am (report abuse)I am 21 yrs old my Dad has been in 16 yrs.I have had to live with this all of my life My Mom worked to jobs I have got to see him 6 times in my life He is over 900 miles away she stills has 14 years to do. I want to know him better and my mom has never dated any other man. just me & her I hear her pray that God will send him home. Please help us pass this bill
cindy
January 1, 2009, 3:26am (report abuse)We NEED TO PASS THIS BILL. GOOD LIFE OFF AND TIME CUTS
Sandi
January 4, 2009, 7:55pm (report abuse)This is a no brainer. It will help the budget in that taxpayers will not be paying over a hundred dollars a day to imprison these people but also will create jobs for parole officers and the parolees will be taxpayers as they will be required to work. This bill MUST pass.