A First Look at the First Step Act

Abstract

This Issue of FSR explores a range of perspectives on the import and impact of the First Step Act as we approach the first anniversary of President Trump signing it into law. Key themes that emerge from materials in this Issue include the need for effective implementation of the Act and the idea that the Act provides just a start on needed federal criminal justice reforms. The clear takeaway is that there is still much work to do both in advocating for the next pieces of federal criminal justice legislation and in seeking to better administer existing laws. But, as we reach a notable first anniversary for the First Step Act, all should be sure to take time to celebrate a year of real progress, no matter how much further one believes we need to go.