Oklahoma shows a commitment to criminal justice reforms

While some states have been doubling down on outdated “lock-’em-up” policies, elected leaders in Oklahoma have looked toward evidence-based ideas to improve correctional outcomes, reduce recidivism and improve workforce opportunities for people who have earned a second chance. And if lawmakers are listening to voters, they’ll build on that track record with continued reforms this legislative session. Last November, Oklahomans were clear: They will see through false and politically motivated "tough-on-crime" narratives. In fact, they’ll reward candidates who champion smart reforms that create better outcomes for their neighbors and reduce recidivism. Gov. Kevin Stitt is an excellent example. 

In his first year in office ― after calling for and signing legislation that aligned sentence reductions of low-level, nonviolent drug offenders with the successful resident-led reclassification petition ― the governor went even further by commuting the sentences of these 527 individuals, allowing them to return to their families by Christmas. 

Read more at the Oklahoman