July 2024 Washington Letter

Federal Government

The Sentencing Reform Act and U.S. Sentencing Commission: 40 years of Evolution

As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984 (SRA) and the establishment of the U.S. Sentencing Commission, it is a fitting moment to reflect on their impact and evolution within the criminal justice system.

Federal Government

FCC Ends Exorbitant Phone Costs for Incarcerated Persons

The Federal Communications Commission is making progress in reducing the cost of phone and video calls for incarcerated people.

Federal Government

SCOTUS curbs agency power in ruling that ends Chevron deference; dissent dubs opinion 'Hubris Squared'

With six justices in the majority, the Supreme Court overruled a 1984 Supreme Court decision and ended a principle known as Chevron deference.

A Look at the Appropriations Process

See a slide deck from National Journal providing an overview of President Biden’s FY2025 budget request, the House’s FY2025 appropriations bills, and status trackers for all 12 appropriations bills.