SB 745 Provides Automatic Resentencing Hearings for Felony Marijuana-Related Convictions
Richmond, Virginia – Yesterday, the Senate of Virginia passed Senator Scott Surovell’s bill to make resentencing available to all individuals currently incarcerated for marijuana-related crimes, and parole for individuals whose sentences were enhanced due to prior marijuana-related convictions, by a vote of 22-18. Senator Surovell is Chairman of the Criminal Subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Judiciary.
“Since we have legalized the recreational use of marijuana in Virginia, and are moving forward with legislation to regulate sales, it is common sense to provide relief to those who were harshly punished for offenses which are no-longer criminalized” Surovell said. “The attitude towards marijuana use in our Commonwealth has changed significantly in recent years, and this bill will help our criminal justice system reflect that change. Providing automatic resentencing hearings and parole opportunities will reunite these individuals, who have paid their debt to society, with their families and communities sooner”.
The Last Prisoner Project’s State Policy Director Gracie Burger voiced her support for the legislation. “Virginians sentenced under outdated laws deserve the opportunity to have their sentence reconsidered, as a matter of both fairness and fiscal responsibility. SB 745 provides that opportunity, by scheduling eligible individuals for sentence modification hearings,” Berger said. “Continuing the incarceration for these individuals is a waste of limited public safety resources that should be prioritized elsewhere. This legislation will put Virginia on the map as a model for smart, evidence-based drug policy.”
The bill now heads to the House of Delegates for consideration.