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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.

MAJOR REFORM VICTORY! California enacts #AB1950.
This bill will help put hundreds of thousands of Californians on probation in positions to succeed and exit the criminal justice system for good. Thank you @GavinNewsom! pic.twitter.com/6rK58ohCku
— REFORM Alliance (@REFORM) October 1, 2020
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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.

A few of @REFORM’s founding partners @VanJones68, @MichaelGRubin, @MeekMill & @RobertKrafts have a special message for our community about #AB1950, the most transformative probation reform bill in the country.
This is just the beginning. This is how we #fightdifferent. @teamroc pic.twitter.com/wlQlAWvOHg
— REFORM Alliance (@REFORM) October 1, 2020
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“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.

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Artist Spotlight

SZA’s Cheeky Take on Drake’s Kissing Skills Sparks Buzz

SZA knows how to keep her fans engaged through her heartfelt music or the rare insights into her personal life. This week, the R&B star sparked many conversations during an interview when she was asked a surprising question: Is Drake a good kisser? This question comes as people are again curious about their brief relationship from 2009.

Fans have often assumed about SZA and Drake’s connection, but she has usually stayed quiet about their past. So, when SZA was asked about Drake’s kissing skills during her interview, everyone was eager to hear her answer. With her usual calm and playful style, she smiled and replied, “Good kisser? Let’s say… Drake’s passionate about everything he does.” Her response left fans guessing what she meant.

As expected, social media lit up within hours, with fans analyzing every word. Was she teasing him? Complimenting him? Or just skillfully avoiding the question? Regardless of the interpretation, her answer was intriguing. SZA’s reply also shows her professionalism. She clarified that she has no intention of saying anything bad about an old friend. As for Drake, he probably won’t respond directly to her comment. He might choose to address the situation in a future song instead.

Fans of both artists are hopeful for a renewal of their friendship, either in the music studio or personally. Despite the ups and downs in their relationship over the years, their ability to create amazing music together is undeniable. Songs like “Slime You Out” and “Rich Baby Daddy” showcase their incredible chemistry, no matter the status of their friendship. Overall, SZA’s response is a great example of how to handle tricky questions with style and humor.

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Artist Spotlight

When Words Cut Deep, Flo and Amara La Negra Clash Over Colorism on Love & Hip-Hop Miami

The latest episode of Love & Hip-Hop Miami stirred up a lot of drama as Flo and Amara La Negra got into a heated argument over accusations of colorism. This intense confrontation quickly grabbed viewers’ attention and sparked discussions on social media about an important social issue. This particular clash resonated with viewers in a way that went beyond just reality TV. The fight started when Flo made comments that Amara perceived as rooted in colorism.

Amara La Negra, who identifies as Afro-Latina and speaks against racism, wasn’t afraid to defend herself. For her, this situation was personal, as she has long advocated for darker-skinned women facing discrimination. On the other hand, Flo, known for her straightforward approach and strong personality, tried to explain her perspective but received backlash both during the episode and from fans. Some viewers felt her comments were dismissive, while others thought the argument was blown out of proportion.

This confrontation sparked a response on social media, with clips of the argument going viral. People shared their opinions, with some praising Amara for standing her ground and others criticizing the show for seemingly sensationalizing a serious topic. The clash has allowed people to discuss the ongoing inequalities in society. It serves as a reminder of reality TV’s influence in bringing attention to cultural issues.

After the episode aired, Flo and Amara stayed active on social media. Amara continued to emphasize her commitment to fighting colorism. On the other hand, Flo hinted at her perspective, promising more details in upcoming episodes. While Love & Hip-Hop Miami thrives on drama, situations like this highlight the delicate balance between entertainment and meaningful conversation.

As the season progresses, fans wonder whether this intense moment will lead to understanding between the two or create more division. The argument will continue well beyond the TV screens, adding depth to the cultural conversations surrounding Love & Hip-Hop Miami.