Is Prison for Everyone? Reducing the American Prison PopulationTHE ISSUE:

In the US, about 6,000 people are

sentenced to prison everyday that lack room for all these

inmates. In Pennsylvania for example, prisons operate about 9% above capacity.

Overcrowding is not only inhumane but

also unsafe and expensive. Some solutions to this

problem to discuss are prison

sentences for minor offenses: such as drug possession,

use, or other nonviolent crimes.

We could also provide alternative

forms of punishment or

retribution for the crimes committed Or, considering the high turnover rate

of ex-prisoners returning to prison,

instituting programs for ex-

convicts could drastically reduce

the prison population.

APPROACH 1: Are Mandatory Minimums Really Worth It?

A large proportion of the prison population is serving time for their crimes based upon

mandatory minimums. Initially, these minimums primarily applied to crimes such

as murder, but have since been applied to nonviolent crimes such as illegal drug

possession or sale. By reducing the mandatory minimums of the prison system

we can minimize the cost to house all inmates,as well as give judges more discretion

with first time offenders and special circumstances.

APPROACH 2: A Detour Avoiding Prison- Rehabilitation.

Simply spending years in a cell may not be the best solution for some people. Including those with a mental disorder or an addiction. These

people would instead greatly benefit in receiving mental help. Instead of sending these

people to prison, they could be sent to rehabilitation centers which would help

drastically reduce the initial population of inmates. Other rehabilitation efforts will be effective in reducing the prison population.

APPROACH 3: Implementing Preventive Programs There is a revolving door for prisoners; when they get out they almost always find their way back.

These prisoners who repeatedly get sentenced to prison are a major player in why the prison population is so high. When these people get out of prison, they find it extremely difficult to

assimilate back to regular life. They find it hard to educate themsleves, provide for their families, and get a job. Because of this struggle, they almost always resort back to what they know works- crime. Helping them along after they get out of prison could make sure that they do not return to prison in the future and have an easier time getting their life back in order. In the longer run and

bigger picture, this will help reduce the prison population.