Action Center

This bill will be acting on a point system - one point for felony convictions and for certain aggravated misdemeanors — including sexual and domestic abuse, assault and possession of a controlled substance — and a half point for other aggravated misdemeanors. A person whose record reaches three points would face a 20-year minimum sentence.

As Catholics, we believe that punishment by civil authorities for criminal activity should serve three common purposes; the preservation and protection of the common good of society, the restoration of public order, and the restoration or conversion of the offender. Crime should be controlled effectively so that it does no harm, and will allow those who have committed crimes to make a positive return into society. Not only will this bill make redemption difficult for some who have tried to redeem themselves, but past studies raise questions about whether these “mandatory minimum” policies actually deter crime. 

Requiring mandatory sentences will not allow judges to consider individual circumstances, which may lead to unjust outcomes. The Catholic bishops support a judge’s ability to draw upon their own experience to come to a just resolution over each case. 

As Catholics we hesitate to support policies that call for harsher prison sentences. Rather, we should promote policies that put more resources into education, restoration, and substance abuse treatment programs. 

We ask that you contact your representatives and ask them to vote no on House File 2542.