I'm on the mailing list for the right-wing Texas Public Policy Foundation with the intention of keeping an eye on their activities, although I must admit that most of their email updates head straight to the trash. However, the headline of an announcement I received today caught my eye:
The Threat of Overcriminalization
Oh - interesting, I thought. As I've mentioned before, Scott Henson runs a great blog on criminal justice reform and civil liberties called Grits for Breakfast that everyone should spend some time exploring. I occasionally forward emails along to Scott when I run across things that are relevant to his site so I started reading over the TPPF email with some curiosity. Was the right finally ready to concede that many of our "get tough on crime" policies have gone to far?
Maybe.
Then again, I suspect that the "overcriminalization" TPPF is concerned with has absolutely nothing to do with the absurd incarceration rates that plague the Texas' low-income communities or the overreaching nature of drug laws or even the huge price tag associated with incarceration costs in Texas. No, judging from Bill Hammond's inclusion on the guest list, I'm guessing that TPPF is more concerned that so many rich white dudes are being persecuted by pesky laws that prohibit embezzlement and limit corporate campaign contributions. Then again, I've been wrong before. Then again again, Marc Levin is involved so it's inherently questionable.
I'm going to have to see if I can clear my calendar...Scott tells me that he plans to check it out. The details are as follows:
May 11, 2005 + 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
900 Congress Ave., Ste. 400
This lunch program will address the recent proliferation of criminal laws that regulate business and individual conduct traditionally left to the free market or civil law. There is no charge to attend, but a reservation is required.
The discussion will be moderated by Marc Levin, director of the Foundation’s Center for Effective Justice. Our speakers will include:
Introductory remarks by the Honorable Jerry Patterson Commissioner, General Land Office
Cato scholar Gene Healy Editor of the new book “Go Directly To Jail”
The Honorable Bill Hammond Former state representative President of the Texas Association of Business
RSVP is required and seats are limited so call 472-2700 ASAP if you're interested in attending.
Posted by sarah at May 10, 2005 11:42 AM