Celebrating the 5th Anniversary of the First Step Act

As we approach the fifth anniversary of the First Step Act, CPAC’s Nolan Center for Justice wants to reflect on the transformative impact this criminal justice legislation has had on the American prison system. Enacted by the 115th Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump in December 2018, the First Step Act represents a significant shift towards a more rehabilitative approach to federal incarceration. One of the key provisions of the act mandates the development of a risk and needs assessment system by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), enabling a more individualized and targeted approach to inmate rehabilitation. According to the First Step Annual Report on January 28, 2023, over 13,500 individuals have been released from various facilities, including Residential Reentry Centers and home confinement, through credits earned under the First Step Act. By incentivizing success and offering time credits and benefits, the legislation encourages prisoners to engage in programs that address the root causes of criminal behavior, ultimately aiming to reduce recidivism rates.

Five years into the implementation of the First Step Act, the positive outcomes are becoming increasingly evident with a recidivism rate of only 12.4%. Additionally, the act has allowed inmates to earn increased good conduct time, fostering a culture of rehabilitation within the prison system. Judges now have greater flexibility in imposing mandatory minimum sentences, promoting fairer and more just outcomes. The act's emphasis on housing inmates closer to home not only facilitates family connections but also supports successful reintegration into society upon release. While challenges persist, the First Step Act stands as a testament to creating a criminal justice system that is not only punitive but also focused on rehabilitation and second chances. As we celebrate its fifth anniversary, it is crucial to recognize the strides made and continue advocating for further reforms that prioritize justice, compassion, and the well-being of all Americans.