Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Sen. Tarr's Statement on Passage of 'Melissa's Bill' by Sentencing Conference Committee

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding the 5-1 passage of a habitual offender bill, also known as Melissa’s Bill that was just released from a sentencing conference committee, which Tarr served on:

“This evening the conference committee took decisive action to respond effectively to the threat to public safety posed by repeat violent offenders. The bill we have approved provides a careful balance between eliminating parole eligibility for violent criminals and ensuring that minimum mandatory sentences for drug offenders are appropriate.

Finally, the families of victims like Melissa Gosule and Officer Jack McGuire can be secure in the knowledge that their courage, passion and commitment have made a real impact on strengthening public safety in our state. Their tenacity in reliving tragedy each time they told the story of their loved ones has been inspirational and impactful."

Posted below is a section by section summary of the bill.