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Minutes for HB2090 - Committee on Corrections and Juvenile Justice
Short Title
Repealing special sentencing rule for third-time possession of a controlled substance.
Minutes Content for Tue, Feb 7, 2017
Natalie Scott gave an overview of HB2090.
The Committee had comments and questions.
Executive Director Scott Schultz testified in support of HB2090 on behalf of Kansas Sentencing Commission. Schultz stated removing this special rule will not compromise public safety, it will enhance our ability to provide treatment to the less violent offenders convicted of drug possession that would not otherwise receive treatment in prison. He said it will also provide direct savings in the form of bed space. (Attachment 1)
The Committee had comments and questions.
Detective Victor Riggins of the Topeka Police Department testified in opposition of HB2090 on behalf of the Kansas Narcotics Officers Association. Riggins stated it is their belief that the striking of all the language in the proposal as it applies to sentencing guidelines for a third or any subsequent offense hampers law enforcement from all over the State and directly puts the communities that they serve in harm's way. (Attachment 2)
The Committee had comments and questions.
Chairperson Jennings called for final questions from the Committee and then closed the hearing.
