(Harrisburg, Pa.) — Today, the Pennsylvania Senate overwhelmingly passed legislation that would make significant improvements to the Commonwealth’s overly punitive and counterproductive probation system with an overwhelming bipartisan majority of 45 to 4.
Senate Bill 838 was introduced in this legislative session by Senators Lisa Baker [R] and co-sponsored by Senators Anthony Williams and Camera Bartolotta [R]. It recently passed out the Senate Judiciary Committee by a widely bipartisan vote of 10-3.
Senate Bill 838 was championed by REFORM Alliance and a broad coalition of organizations from across the political spectrum that make up the Pennsylvania Safety Coalition. More than 100 groups and 300+ individuals across the commonwealth have endorsed the legislation.
SB 838 includes key reforms that will help tens of thousands of people on probation across the state by:
- Limiting when someone can be sent to prison for a technical violation and how long they can be incarcerated for;
- Shortening probation terms with new early termination protocols with a presumption of termination at the 2-year mark for misdemeanor and 4-year mark for felony probation – or at the halfway point, whichever is sooner
- Creating a new incentives for people on probation who maintain employment and pursue education or vocational certification;
- Moving away from one-size-fits-none probation conditions and ensuring courts take people’s unique risks & needs into consideration; and
- Taking people’s financial situation and ability to pay fines, fees, and restitution into consideration
“Advocates and people impacted by the probation system played an instrumental role in improving this bill over previous versions and I am so grateful to them, and the lawmakers who listened to their stories,” said Jessica Jackson, Chief Advocacy and Operations Officer at REFORM Alliance. “Probation reforms are long overdue in Pennsylvania and we applaud the Senate for their work getting this done. With overwhelming bipartisan support, a diverse bipartisan coalition standing in support, and communities calling for change, the time is now to bring these reforms over the finish line in the House.”
Members of the Pennsylvania Safety Coalition commended the State Senate for quickly moving on this bill:
“In our line of work, we witness firsthand the power of redemption and the human capacity for change. This bill embodies those principles of compassion and second chances. It’s about uplifting our brothers and sisters who’ve stumbled and are trying to get back on their feet. I applaud the Senators who voted to advance this legislation and am hopeful we will finally bring these measures into law here in Pennsylvania.”
Accountable Prison Ministry, Keith Sultzbaugh, (Dauphin County)
I am fully supportive of Bill 838, and believe it is long overdue. I am one of so many who have been held back drastically in life, due to unrealistic reporting requirements and the barrier that probation currently is. Once someone is in recovery and doing well everything changes positively, except where being on probation is concerned. Currently, the limitations of probation are only encouraging recidivism and that seems to be its focus. Of course, probation is something that is necessary and it could help many people, but only after this first step. I fully support REFORM Alliance and applaud their efforts.
Nichole Rousell, Cambria County Drug Coalition
“This bill signals a shift away from antiquated punitive measures towards a system that acknowledges the importance of rehabilitation and personal growth. SB 838 affirms our belief in the power of second chances. It is a vital step forward in fostering safer communities, and a testament to the capacity for positive change in our justice system.”
Ebony McNeil, The Forge
I commend the elected officials who passed Senate Bill 838 for investing in a safer, stronger Commonwealth. Together, we will build a smarter probation system that promotes reentry and rehabilitation instead of wasting millions of taxpayer dollars on needless reincarceration.
Faith & Freedom Coalition, Patrick Purtill (Nationwide)
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REFORM Alliance aims to transform probation and parole by changing laws, systems and culture to create real pathways to work and wellbeing.
MEDIA CONTACT: Brittany Crampsie, 717 712 3480