Group Against Mandatory Minimums Gains Minor Victory

The U.S. Sentencing Commission voted 6-1 yesterday to change sentencing guidelines for people convicted of possession crack cocaine. There had been widespread criticism at the discrepancy of the penalties of Crack and Powdered Cocaine. Advocate groups, including Families Against Mandatory Minimums, see the move as step in the right direction but still have reservations

"While this incremental change is a far cry from the 'equalization' of crack and powder cocaine the Commission recommended in 1995, it is a long overdue first step to improving crack sentences," President of FAMM Julie Stewart said in a PR release and added, "While the Commission's amendment does not solve the problem of excessive crack cocaine penalties it moves us closer to that goal, which is why FAMM supports the Commission's crack amendment."

The amendment now moves to Congress who has six months to accept the recommendation by the Commission. The new guidelines would take affect on November 1st if Congress acts on the vote.