Bipartisan probation reform modeled off DeSantis and Jay-Z efforts primed for passage in VA

Bipartisan Virginia lawmakers are currently working on a criminal justice reform bill that is drawing inspiration from a similar law passed in Florida in 2022. This unlikely pairing of Gov. Ron DeSantis and rap mogul Jay-Z brought attention to the issue and set the stage for similar initiatives in other states.

State Del. Wren Williams, a Republican from Stuart, is leading the charge on this reform effort, which has already received the backing of the entire Democratic majority in Virginia’s lower House. The state Senate is expected to vote on their version of the legislation this week, with plans to merge it into a final bill for Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s approval.

Williams’ bill aims to give individuals on supervised probation the opportunity to earn lighter treatment by meeting certain criteria. For example, those who hold a job, pursue education, or participate in rehabilitation programs could see their probationary period shortened. These provisions are similar to the Florida law championed by the Jay-Z-founded criminal justice organization, the “REFORM Alliance.”

The Florida law, which allows probationers to earn education and workforce credits to expedite their exit from the system, served as a model for Williams’ legislation. He cited the success of Florida’s law and the emphasis on rehabilitation and second chances as key factors in his decision to push for similar reforms in Virginia.

Williams emphasized that Virginia’s approach to criminal justice reform aligns with conservative values while promoting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. By offering individuals the opportunity to prove their commitment to change, the state aims to lower costs, enhance public safety, and provide a path to reintegration for those in the criminal justice system.

The issue of crime and reform was a significant topic in the recent gubernatorial election, with candidates like Gov. Youngkin and former Gov. Terry McAuliffe exchanging criticisms over criminal justice policies. The support for this reform bill from both sides of the aisle reflects a growing consensus on the need for comprehensive criminal justice reform in Virginia.

Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears, a prominent Republican figure, voiced her support for the legislation, highlighting the importance of incentivizing education and job opportunities for individuals on probation. Democratic candidate Abigail Spanberger has also advocated for criminal justice reforms, underscoring the need for policies that promote justice and equality.

As the bill awaits final approval from Gov. Youngkin, it remains to be seen how it will impact Virginia’s criminal justice system. With bipartisan support and a focus on rehabilitation and second chances, this legislation could set a new standard for criminal justice reform in the state.