Sentencing reform through a stronger SB 3

Senate Bill 3, under consideration in the Ohio Senate, seeks to provide addiction treatment instead of incarceration to Ohioans charged with possession of certain drugs. As introduced, SB 3 would reclassify some low-level drug offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. This is an important reform for Ohio. This analysis finds that, as introduced, SB 3 would provide treatment for some Ohioans who would otherwise face time in prison. Exceptions in the bill, however, would exclude many Ohioans who could benefit.