12.17.18

Durbin, Grassley Statement On Senate's Consideration Of The First Step Act

WASHINGTON – Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) made the following statement on the Senate’s 82-12 vote tonight to hold debate and a final vote on the First Step Act this week:

“I am glad that my colleagues have voted to advance this bipartisan legislation.  It is the best chance in a generation to make meaningful changes in our federal drug sentencing laws.  We cannot waste it,” Durbin said.  “I look forward to debating this bill over the next day and sharing why Congress should pass this bipartisan legislation to begin relieving our overcrowded prisons, redirecting funding to our most pressing crime prevention efforts, making our communities safer, and ensuring the integrity of our justice system.” 

“Tonight the Senate decided overwhelmingly to wrap up debate and hold a final vote on the bipartisan First Step Act this week. Years of negotiations and input from colleagues, stakeholders, advocates and law enforcement have finally culminated in a broadly bipartisan bill that is backed by President Trump as well as lawmakers and organizations from across the political spectrum.  I look forward to a lively debate.  This is a unique opportunity to pass once-in-a-generation reforms and to score a victory for the country and for American justice,” Grassley said.

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