[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 196 (Wednesday, December 12, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Page S7505]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, when we set out to update and reform our 
criminal justice system, we sought the expertise from a broad range of 
stakeholders and advocates. Our focus has always been to reduce crime 
and recidivism and improve fairness in a way that promotes safety and 
respect for the law. We could not have done this without the essential 
input from a number of key law enforcement organizations that partnered 
with us in this endeavor.
  The Fraternal Order of Police, the International Association of 
Chiefs of Police, and National Organization of Black Law Enforcement 
Executives played a formative role in the updated text we released 
earlier today. Their continued leadership and good faith engagement 
have cut a path forward on a once-in-a-generation chance to improve 
American justice. I would also like to thank the National District 
Attorneys Association, the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, and 
Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime and Incarceration, who gave 
valuable input on this bill. Their engagement offered important law 
enforcement perspective in the initial stages of our work.
  While some groups have chosen to stay on the sidelines or even 
undermine our work, these organizations have provided us with critical 
feedback needed to refine and strengthen the First Step Act. They have 
helped to advance law enforcement priorities and the goals of reform.
  With President Trump's continued leadership, the wealth of input from 
voices across the political spectrum, and Senator McConnell's work in 
bringing this up for a vote, I look forward to getting this bill signed 
into law.

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