Kudos for the House for voting unanimously to pass HB 358. This bill, developed by SURJ (Stand Up for what's Right and Just), calls for a special commission on criminal justice to make a comprehensive review of the procedures followed in Delaware's criminal justice system, including plea bargaining, sentencing, and corrections policies; and to make recommendations for reform, where necessary, paying special attention to justice, cost savings, and, most important, public safety.

The bill enjoys the support of leaders across Delaware's criminal justice system. The Chief Justice of the Delaware Supreme Court, E. Norman Veasey, voiced his support for the bill before a joint session of the General Assembly in his farewell State of the Judiciary address this past April. Delaware's Sentencing Accountability Commission ("SENTAC") has also endorsed the bill. Its members represent the Department of Correction, law enforcement officials, judges, and key Executive Branch officials. Over a dozen civic groups have also endorsed this bill.

The undersigned, on behalf of SURJ, spent several weeks interviewing leaders of the criminal justice system, as well as leaders in the community, as to this bill, and the bill reflects suggestions that were received during that process. The bill has widespread support from those with whom we spoke.

H.B. 358 is an important step in the right direction for justice in our state. We hope the Senate will act favorably and send the bill to the Governor so that the special commission can begin its important work.

Carl Schnee and Rodman Ward, Wilmington