[AicapAifap] FAMM

[Alliance of Incarcerated Canadians/Foreigners in American Prisons]

	Dear Aicap, 

	Right now, the U.S. Sentencing Commission is in the midst of its
annual review and amending of sentencing guidelines. These guidelines
cover sentences below, between, and above mandatory minimums. The
guidelines are strictly advisory — but they work like gravity on the
ultimate sentence. 

	In August, the commission proposed some changes to the guidelines
that would lower sentences for some people, including "first
offenders." The proposal would define what a first offender is and
lower sentences for people in that category. The commission is also
considering making these changes retroactive — which is great news!
The time for public comment is over, but you can read FAMM's statement
here. 

	The commission has not decided if it will adopt the first offender
proposal or the other proposals made in August (including one on
acceptance of responsibility). It will decide before May 1, 2018, when
all proposed guidelines are due to Congress for review.  

	On January 25, 2018, the commission proposed changes that would,
among other things, lengthen guidelines for certain kinds of synthetic
drugs. They include synthetic marijuana, so-called "bath salts," and
fentanyl. Far fewer than 1,000 people a year are sentenced for
synthetic drugs, but some of the proposed changes would increase
sentences in this area. You can read the proposed amendments and learn
about how you can comment on them here. 

	The commission is also planning two hearings on many of the proposed
amendments on February 8 and March 14. You can watch them online at
www.ussc.gov. You can also attend in person if you are in or near the
D.C. area. And, of course, we will keep you posted on all things
guidelines at www.famm.org. 

	At FAMM, we stay right on top of guideline developments — and will
make sure you do the same by keeping you informed. Thank you for your
support. 

	Sincerely,

 Mary Price
General Counsel, FAMM                                                 
    
	FAMM is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization fighting for smart
sentencing laws that protect public safety.
 1100 H Street NW | Suite 1000 | Washington, D.C. 20005  | (202)
822-6700
 FAMM © 2018 All rights reserved. 
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