News
REFORM Alliance Tallies a Major Win in Reshaping California Probation System
The REFORM Alliance has achieved its first major legislative accomplishment with the enactment of AB 1950, legislation that will significantly improve California’s probation system and help put hundreds of thousands of Californians on probation in positions to succeed and exit the criminal justice system once and for all.
This is the first major legislative victory for the REFORM Alliance, which is co-founded by Meek Mill, Michael Rubin, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, Robert Kraft, Clara Wu Tsai, Michael Novogratz, Dan Loeb, Robert Smith, Robert Kraft, and Laura Arnold and the CEO is Van Jones.
REFORM worked with Assemblywoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, the legislation’s primary sponsor, to push AB 1950 through this session. Jessica Jackson (REFORM’s Chief Advocacy Officer) and Erin Haney (REFORM’s National Policy Director) led the organization’s campaign to generate more than 3,500 emails from Californians to their legislators and to Governor Gavin Newsom, who formally signed the measure into law on September 30.
The new law will limit probation sentences to maximum of one year for misdemeanors and two years for felonies, which will reduce needless probation violations and make across state travel safer.
Currently, there are around 300,000 adults on probation in California leading to over $4,400 in taxpayer costs annually. The state spends $2 billion each year to incarcerate people for supervision violations – $235 million of which is spent on incarcerating people for victimless, technical violations like coming home late from work.
The reduction of probation terms from 3 years to 1 year for misdemeanors and 5 years to 2 years for felonies via AB 1950 could amount to $2.1 billion in reduced incarceration, probation, and judicial and operational costs over 5 years in California.
“This is exactly why we created REFORM – to change laws and create a smarter criminal justice system focused on rehabilitation and redemption all while keeping communities safe,” said REFORM co-chair Michael Rubin. “We’re grateful for Governor Newsom and Assemblywoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s commitment to making such meaningful change in California and we hope it sets a necessary precedent for state leaders across the country.”
“By signing AB 1950 into law, Governor Newsom has further cemented his legacy as a champion for justice, redemption, and opportunity,” said Van Jones, CEO of REFORM. “In a year that has been so challenging and difficult for so many, this reform marks a bright spot that will lead to better outcomes for individuals and families across California. I cannot thank the Governor enough for supporting this legislation. I look forward to working with him to make the measure even stronger and more meaningful in the coming year.”
“I want to thank Governor Newsom for his leadership in signing AB1950, the most transformative probation bill in this country to date,” said Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter in a statement. “This is a first step that I hope introduces a wave of much needed change through the country.”
The post REFORM Alliance Tallies a Major Win in Reshaping California Probation System appeared first on The Source.
Artist Spotlight
Phlo-osophy shares a new single, “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)”
Phlo-osophy’s “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)” is a thoughtful and relaxing meditation on intellect and existence, packaged with laid-back production that encourages both thought and comfort. The song starts with atmospheric synths and a low-key beat, creating a space that is the laboratory of contemplation.
Phlo-osophy’s lyrical style steers into tough concepts spontaneous physics of thought, the chemistry of emotion — and yet remains highly accessible. The production is the strength of the production: soft, warm textures, synth pads, muted guitar echoes, quiet electronic pulses, cohere into a hushed, private atmosphere.
The result is a song that teeters between heady curiosity and soulful expression. It’s not out to swamp us with complexity, but to suggest a room in which mind and emotion can cohabitate thoughtfully. “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)” serves as a signal of Phlo-osophy’s approach as an enlightening artist who writes not only with heart, but with mind and who welcomes the listener on its journey of self-discovery.
News
Police Scanner Audio Suggests Lil Nas X May Have Been Tased During Bizarre Studio City Arrest
Last week, an unexpected and surprising situation unfolded involving rapper Lil Nas X. Reports from police audio shared by TMZ reveal a dramatic scene where the Grammy-winning artist was allegedly found walking naked near Universal Studios. This led to police being called to intervene. According to the recordings, things escalated quickly, with indications that officers may have used a taser as Lil Nas ran towards them. As a result of this incident, Nas spent the weekend in jail and appeared in court on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty.
He was later released after paying $75,000 in bail. The details from the police recordings provide a rare glimpse into this intense moment that led to his arrest. Sharing a more personal view, Nas’ father, Robert Stafford, spoke to TMZ, reporting that his son is doing well. “He’s great. God is good, God has a plan. I think you all know everything that you need to know about what happened Thursday,” Stafford stated, showing his faith and support. He reassured fans that Nas is feeling remorseful about the incident, but emphasized that challenges can happen to any family.
He added that Nas is getting the help he needs and encouraged everyone to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. This unfolding story has gained a lot of attention, partly because it provides insight into a part of celebrity life that people don’t usually see. While news often focuses on the finished stories, these police recordings show events as they actually happened, making the situation feel more real and striking. As the legal process continues, many are watching to see what will happen next for Nas, both in his personal life and career.
The police audio serves as a strong reminder of how quickly life can take unexpected turns, even for well-known figures in music. With the support of his family and a focus on moving forward, Nas seems ready to handle this challenging time with responsibility and dignity. This unusual incident highlights the human side of celebrity news, reminding fans that there’s always more to a story than what’s seen in the headlines.
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