(RNS) — April is Second Likelihood Month, a designation supposed to acknowledge Individuals who’ve been impacted by the justice system and are popping out of incarceration.

Redemption and forgiveness are additionally on the coronary heart of Christian instructing. Justice isn’t a matter of punishment, however of restoration and reconciliation.

That’s why I helped write a decision supporting Second Look laws that the Annual Assembly of the Michigan Convention of the United Church of Christ handed in October 2023. It’s a common sense coverage that can make our legal authorized system extra humane and our communities safer.

Second Look laws goals to create a course of for courts to reevaluate prolonged jail sentences, notably for people who have been incarcerated at a younger age and have demonstrated rehabilitation and progress throughout their time served. A number of states have already handed Second Look payments, and states like Michigan, Maryland and Vermont are contemplating Second Look laws this yr.

The method created by these payments is strong. It sometimes features a evaluate by a choose, who would fastidiously think about enter from the sufferer, the seriousness of the unique offense, the incarcerated individual’s historical past and habits, and any dangers or advantages to society.

The essence of Christianity is rooted within the transformative energy of grace, mercy and the chance for renewal. We imagine each particular person has the capability for transformation and deserves the chance to reconcile with society. Inside this framework, Second Look laws makes excellent sense.

This invoice additionally aligns with years of analysis displaying that people age out of crime. Even individuals who have interaction in repeat offending in younger maturity are inclined to desist by their late 30s. Furthermore, analysis from The Sentencing Mission notes that “even the overall risk of long run imprisonment is an ineffective deterrent.”

It’s clear that holding individuals in jail previous their proclivity, and even their bodily means, to commit crime isn’t making us any safer.

Fairly the alternative, actually. In my house state of Michigan, taxpayers are spending thousands and thousands of {dollars} to incarcerate individuals who not pose a risk to society. The per-person price of imprisonment in Michigan ranges from $34,000 to $48,000 per year.

These are sources that could possibly be directed towards more practical crime prevention and rehabilitation applications. In different phrases, Second Look laws not solely encourages sensible spending, but additionally fosters safer communities and stronger households.

Moreover, for Christians and plenty of different spiritual, Second Look laws aligns with the precept of solidarity and take care of the susceptible and marginalized. Lengthy sentences have an effect on younger Black males disproportionately compared with every other race and age group, and twice as many Black kids as white kids have skilled parental incarceration. This development is mirrored in Michigan as effectively.

The established order is extremely troubling, and it’s time for a change.

Fortunately, we’re seeing a groundswell of bipartisan help for Second Look laws throughout the nation. In March, advocates rallied at the Michigan Capitol in help of the Second Look Sentencing Act. These advocates included researchers, teachers, legislators, previously incarcerated people, members of the religion group and individuals who have been immediately impacted by crime.

That final group is essential; we should at all times keep in mind that crime survivors should not all of 1 opinion. They’re a various group, and their wants typically prolong previous perpetuating a damaged cycle of punishment and retribution.

As Christians, we’re referred to as to emulate God’s boundless mercy by extending compassion to those that have erred and providing them a path to redemption.

On the identical time, the significance of Second Look laws transcends spiritual boundaries. This laws resonates profoundly throughout the ethos of equity and rehabilitation.

That’s why I’m urging the Michigan Legislature to go the Second Look Sentencing Act, and for state legislatures across the nation to draft and think about Second Look laws. I hope that the Christian group will be part of me on this work.

(The Rev. Cheryl Burke is the affiliate convention minister for the Michigan Convention United Church of Christ. The views expressed on this commentary don’t essentially mirror these of Faith Information Service.)