‘Markie’s Law’ vetoed by Gov. Wolf
“Markie’s Law,” legislation sponsored by state Rep. Aaron Bernstine, R-10th, aimed to keep violent inmates in jail longer, has been vetoed by Gov. Tom Wolf.
The bill would have delayed consideration of a violent prisoner's parole by 24 months after their minimum release date for each conviction of an incarcerated violent offense.
The bill was passed the Senate by a 41-9 vote, and the House concurred with the Senate’s changes by a 133-69 vote.
The bill also would suspend consideration of an inmate’s parole by 12 months if the inmate attempts escape, smuggles contraband, or intimidates witnesses during incarceration.
“I am upset, disappointed and disgusted with the governor’s decision to veto this important, common-sense legislation,” Berstine said in a news release. “This bill would have kept the most dangerous inmates from a premature release in order to protect our commonwealth residents and would have saved Markie’s life.”
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