(Bismarck, ND) — Some North Dakota lawmakers are pushing for equal sentencing when it comes to certain drug violations. In the U.S., people facing federal crack charges receive much longer prison sentences than those with cocaine, even though crack cocaine and cocaine powder are essentially the same substance in different forms. Republican Congressman Kelly Armstrong is pushing for approval of the EQUAL Act, adding that unequal treatment and sentencing disparities affect everyone, especially those of lower socioeconomic status. If the EQUAL Act passes, sentencing would be in the same range for the two drugs but would not include offenders like cartels or other high-level leaders.
ND Lawmakers, Advocates Strive For Passage Of EQUAL Act
