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Stop imprisoning people, too many of whom are veterans and minorities, for non-violent crimes. Instead, have them do community service and/or use their abilities to help individuals care for their yards or homes, etc. It makes no sense to spend more money on a prisoner than a student for something like drug possession or sleeping in a park.

Submitted by Edwina S. from CA in Society & Community Nov. 16, 2014, 1:22 p.m.

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#26

4674 votes

Shift the focus of the criminal justice system from retribution to rehabilitation. The current system is monstrously inhumane and succeeds only in multiplying the harm done to society through the vastly disproportionate criminal population. Comprehensive prison and rehabilitation reform is necessary to make up for the damage that continues to be done.

Submitted by Timothy S. in Health Dec. 12, 2014, 11 p.m.

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Instead of sending people to prison for minor drug offenses, fund rehabilitation programs. Many individuals would have the opportunity to re-enter society and not be stripped of their rights after being labeled criminals. The US mass incarceration rate would decrease dramatically.

Submitted by Nicole Merchut in Society & Community Dec. 11, 2014, 2:21 a.m.

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Roger

I think your heart is in the right place but you don't go far enough. No one should be brought into the justice system, even for community service, for things that are none of the government's business. Drugs, sex work, and all consenting acts between adults should be completely legal.

Dec. 10, 2014, 1:59 p.m.

20 in 20

Goals are dreams with deadlines. I would respectfully submit that prison populations should be reduced by 2% a year over the next 20 years.

Dec. 10, 2014, 10:24 p.m.