What does Preamble of Second Look Act of 2026 do?

This bill aims to allow incarcerated persons to petition for a sentence review The petition is for sentences longer than 10 years The individual must not be a danger to the community and be ready for reentry

What does SHORT TITLE. of Second Look Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled the Second Look Act of 2026.

What does FINDINGS. of Second Look Act of 2026 do?

This section outlines findings related to the United States criminal justice system, noting the disproportionately high incarceration rate compared to other countries. The text highlights a significant increase in the incarcerated population over the past 40 years and the growth of incarcerated women outpacing that of men. It expresses a need for a 'second look' at sentences, particularly life sentences and long sentences without review, citing human rights concerns and the number of individuals serving such sentences. The section details the impact of mandatory minimum penalties, noting a large percentage of the federal prison population has been sentenced under them and that many serving life sentences were convicted of nonviolent crimes or drug offenses. It compares U.S. sentencing laws to those of other nations, noting generally shorter maximum sentences and parole review processes elsewhere. The text emphasizes the limited options for review of federal sentences due to the abolition of parole and advocates for resentencing opportunities. It argues that incarcerated individuals, particularly those over 50, pose a lower risk to public safety and that their continued incarceration is costly to taxpayers. The section cites various organizations and individuals who recommend resentencing opportunities and emphasizes the potential for redemption.

What does MODIFICATION OF CERTAIN TERMS OF IMPRISONMENT. of Second Look Act of 2026 do?

This section modifies subchapter C of chapter 229 of title 18, United States Code by inserting a new section 3627. Section 3627 allows a court to reduce a term of imprisonment if the term was more than 10 years, the defendant has served at least 10 years, and the court finds the defendant is not a danger and demonstrates readiness for reentry. The court must consider factors including the nature of the offense, the defendant's history and characteristics, age, and rehabilitation efforts. Defendants whose sentences are reduced must serve a term of supervised release. Applications for sentence reduction must be filed with the sentencing court, and the Bureau of Prisons must provide notice to relevant parties. The United States Sentencing Commission is required to submit an annual report to Congress on requests for sentence reductions under this section. The amendments apply to any conviction entered before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act.

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Second Look Act of 2026

Last updated: 4/28/2026 · Introduced: 4/28/2026

Author: Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill allows individuals with prison sentences exceeding 10 years to petition the court for a sentence reduction after serving at least 10 years, provided they are deemed not a danger and ready for reentry.
Courts considering sentence reductions must evaluate factors such as the offense, defendant's history, rehabilitation efforts, and age.
The bill mandates an annual report to Congress from the United States Sentencing Commission detailing sentence reduction requests and outcomes.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

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