Annabell Christensen
Thank you, members of the subcommittee,.I respectfully oppose this bill because it significantly increases sentencing severity without clear evidence that it will improve public safety. A mandatory twenty year minimum before parole removes judicial discretion and fails to account for individual circumstances or rehabilitation efforts.The point based system is also concerning. By including a wide range of offenses, including nonviolent ones, the bill risks sweeping too many people into extreme penalties and may disproportionately affect those struggling with substance use, poverty, or mental health challenges rather than focusing resources on the most dangerous individuals.These long sentences also carry major financial costs to taxpayers, contribute to overcrowding, and reduce incentives for rehabilitation and successful reentry.I urge the committee to reconsider this approach and explore evidence based alternatives that promote safety, accountability, and fairness. Thank you