Statement from Middlesex District Marian Ryan on Criminal Justice Reform Bill

The bill signed into law today is a meaningful step forward in reforming our criminal justice system. I am particularly proud of the provisions included that will expand statewide a number of initiatives we have long utilized in Middlesex County including using restorative justice practices to intervene in the lives of at-risk youth and young adults and offering a broad range of diversion options. This new law addresses the collateral consequences for individuals who get involved in the criminal justice system ensuring that we continue to focus on rehabilitation and not just punitive aspects of our legal system. With these guidelines in place we will be able to do even more to change the trajectory of someone’s life. I am grateful to have been able to participate in the conversation about progressive criminal justice reform and I applaud the work of the legislature in crafting this new law.