Alabama Legislature Passes Second Chance Bill
Recently, the Alabama Legislature approved several bills reflecting a commitment to Christian values. As the session comes to a close, there’s an important opportunity to align with biblical teachings regarding the management of “these minimums,” highlighted by the passing of SB 156, the Second Chance Bill.
Part of Governor Kay Ivey’s legislative agenda, SB 156 is a conservative, bipartisan initiative aimed at addressing the moral and financial shortcomings associated with thousands of elderly Alabamians residing in prison system warehouses. Throughout the Bible, there is a call to action that this bill embodies.
The Second Chance Bill meets the three key elements laid out by the Prophet Micah regarding what God desires: do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly (Micah 6:8). The bill focuses on justice, ensuring that all cases are reviewed by a judge before any negative feelings arise, allowing victims to express their views during the hearing.
This bill is modest in its reach. It is anticipated that around 150-180 individuals will qualify based on the bill’s criteria, and those with crimes involving physical harm won’t be eligible for this review.
It’s crucial to note that no one will be released automatically. Instead, the bill permits a select number of individuals to seek a review, with judges using insights from the district attorney and victims to assess whether a life sentence without parole remains warranted. Importantly, the Second Chance Bill extends mercy to those who have already endured over 25 years of extremely harsh prison conditions.
This legislation presents an opportunity to translate Christian beliefs into action. As outlined in the Lord’s Prayer, believers are encouraged to pray for God’s will to be realized on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:9-10).
Part of fulfilling this will involves being merciful, as instructed in Luke 6:36, and seeking forgiveness for transgressions (Matthew 6:12). As James states, showing mercy is a fundamental expectation for Christians.
Mercy ultimately triumphs over judgment (James 2:13). If we continue to condemn rather than support rehabilitation, we undermine the belief that “the Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”
Reflecting on my past encounters, I met prisoners facing life sentences without hope unless this bill progressed. One story stands out. John Manley was sentenced to life in prison in 1986 for robbery, having harmed no one and never even meeting the victim. He was in his early 20s at the time. His 90-year-old mother, a widow of a World War II veteran, is now advocating for justice, believing that nearly 40 years is sufficient for a robbery conviction. For John, SB 156 represents the only path to fairness.
Moreover, the Second Chance Bill serves as an “instrument of peace” in line with the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi. It brings “hope” where there is despair, “light” where there’s darkness, “joy” where there is sadness, and “amnesty” where there is injury.
Passing the Second Chance Bill marks a significant stride toward rehabilitation and restitution. It is vital for Alabama to support SB 156 and convey that the principles of mercy and forgiveness remain strong among its people, echoing the sentiments of St. Francis.
