Criminal Justice Reform

A group that advocates on behalf of Ohioans who have criminal records is launching a new program in Cleveland.

Non-violent offenders would be granted a release or reduced sentence if the Ohio General Assembly passes a bill that updates the laws on those offenses.

The Ohio Ballot Board has approved the legislators who will write arguments for and against the ballot issues to change the state’s bail system and bar non-U.S. citizens from voting.

Building Freedom Ohio is asking policymakers to change collateral sanctions.

Ohio voters could see a measure on the November ballot that changes the way judges can address cash bail for people accused of crimes.

The Office of the Ohio Public Defender said they're especially interested in how the bill can help people get back on their feet after a conviction.

Nearly 1 million residents of the state have felony convictions. For our Justice Matters series, we speak with some of them who have been living with the consequences, while we identify some calls for change.

When it comes to reforming Ohio's criminal justice system, changing the laws tends to start at the state-level. But while lawmakers look at shifting sentencing from prison to treatment, there's also an urge by officials to increase penalties, resulting in what can be a contrasting approach to reform.

Although bipartisanship isn't seen frequently these days, there seems to be some agreement from both sides of the aisle on the need to reform bail in Ohio.

Even with bipartisan support to reduce Ohio's prison population, state lawmakers are increasing the number of felonies and penalties defendants face.