Make Congress great (or at least relevant) again with criminal justice reform

Published November 9, 2016 2:00pm ET



With a disapproval rating hovering around 80 percent, the 114th Congress is on track to be among the least productive in history. But with the end of a contentious election and the lame-duck session just a week away, there remains an opportunity for the 114th Congress to leave a meaningful mark on history, specifically by passing significant criminal-justice reform.

Somewhat differing versions of reform legislation sit in both the House and Senate, but either one would save taxpayer money, ensure dangerous criminals are locked up and rein in government power – all solid Republican principles. Either version also would provide more equitable sentencing for nonviolent offenders and address abuses of asset-forfeiture rules, concerns that are shared on the political left. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle should be able to come together to make our communities safer and restore the liberties outlined in our founding documents.

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