Mandatory drug sentence is eliminated

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - After 4 years in the making, a new law is on the books.

Mandatory minimum drug sentences of ten years in prison for convicted dealers has been elminated.

The law applies to non-violent first-time offenders, and, now Rhode Island joins dozens of other states amending their sentencing policies.

Every day, drug arrests flood the State's courts and prison system, but a new change in mandatory minimum sentencing is expected to relieve the growing ACI population and keep a check on excessive punishments.

Representative Joseph Almeida of Providence says, "it gives the judge discretion, instead of sending a guy right away to do a 20 year bid, it gives them discretion on how to make that decision for that individual."

Supporters say 20 years of existing policies prove long sentences don't deter drug use and dealing, but instead, devastate communities and cost taxpayers money.

Mimi Budnick from Direct Action for Rrights and Equality says, "what they've done is drive up the prison population, create next generations of people that are paying the collateral damage of that, they've sucked money from our community.

The bill became law in early November, it was effective without the Governor's signature with nearly 100% support in the general assembly.