Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Statement on Passage of Justice Reform Measure

Statement on Passage of Justice Reform Measure

Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton issued the following statement on July 23, 2026:

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to justice, and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s historic decision in Commonwealth v. Lee provided an opportunity to address years of inequity and rethink reform.

House Democrats responded with comprehensive legislation grounded in justice and accountability.

The bipartisan legislation passed today fulfills the court’s directive by ensuring that individuals are held accountable in a manner that reflects their level of responsibility for a crime.

It also demonstrates our commitment to protecting Pennsylvanians by giving a voice to victims, reducing recidivism through expanded educational opportunities in our correctional institutions, and strengthening compassionate release, a reform that will save the commonwealth millions of dollars without compromising public safety.