Wisconsin citizens affected by incarceration demand repeal of 1994 Crime Bill

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – Wisconsin residents directly affected by the controversial Crime Bill of 1994 are calling on lawmakers to repeal the law and replace it with a National Justice Reinvestment Act.

The organization WISDOM held the press conference at the Wisconsin State Capitol on Tuesday morning.

The crime bill was controversial because it offered states financial incentives to build more prisons and increase sentencing, which in turn is blamed for mass incarceration in the United States.

Organizations and former prisoners are calling for changes within the facilities built after the law was passed.

“The burden of change is not solely on them. It is also the responsibility of the system to be designed to meet the goals of rehabilitation and recovery of these community members, because that is what they are: community members,” said Julie Bliefnick.

Prince Rashada says he is a supporter of the restoration of justice.

“When they leave the prison system, they should have systems in place that provide them with mental health services, employment and job skills, and higher education opportunities,” Rashada said. “I'm sorry to say this, but I had to go to prison to get an education. I ended up getting my doctorate behind bars.”

The MPs also spoke about the impact of the bill and urged the public to continue to talk to their local senators about the issue. September 13 marks the 30th anniversary of the bill's passage.

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