ASCA has been tracking the movement of S.714 and its companion bill H.R. 5143.  While ASCA has some doubts about the value of yet another commission, it does see merit and value in a national study were the Commission works to include experienced criminal justice system practitioners in its membership.

Originally introduced on March 3, 2009 by Senator Jim Webb (VA), S.714 The National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2010 has been reported out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar.  The legislation would establish the National Criminal Justice Commission to undertake a comprehensive review of all areas of the criminal justice system, including federal, state, local, and tribal governments' criminal justice costs, practices, and policies.  Further, it directs the Commission to: (1) make findings regarding its review and recommendations for changes in oversight, policies, practices, and laws designed to prevent, deter, and reduce crime and violence, improve cost-effectiveness, and ensure the interests of justice; (2) conduct public hearings in various locations around the United States; (3) consult with federal, state, local, and tribal government and nongovernmental leaders and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system, including the U.S. Sentencing Commission; and (4) submit a final report, within 18 months after its formation, to Congress, the President, and state, local, and tribal governments, and make such report available to the public. To review a copy of the Bill to Establish the National Criminal Justice Commission, click on the following link.

The National Criminal Justice Commission