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Equalizing Cocaine Sentencing: Eliminating Disparity in Federal Law.

This Act eliminates the historical difference in federal penalties for offenses involving crack cocaine versus powder cocaine, ensuring equal sentencing guidelines regardless of the drug form. Crucially, the law allows courts to review and potentially reduce sentences for thousands of individuals previously convicted of crack cocaine offenses. This change aims to address long-standing sentencing disparities.
Key points
Federal prison sentences for crack cocaine and powder cocaine offenses are now equalized.
The new, equal penalties apply immediately to all future and pending cases.
Individuals previously sentenced for crack cocaine offenses can petition the court to review and potentially reduce their current sentence.
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VOTING RESULTS
2021-09-28
85%
For 361
Against 66
Abstain 0
Full voting results open_in_new
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_1693
Sponsor: Rep. Jeffries, Hakeem S. [D-NY-8]
Process start date: 2021-03-09
Voting date: 2021-09-28
Meeting no: 1
Voting no: 297
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

EQUAL Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_1693.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-03-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Federal prison sentences for crack cocaine and powder cocaine offenses are now equalized.
  • The new, equal penalties apply immediately to all future and pending cases.
  • Individuals previously sentenced for crack cocaine offenses can petition the court to review and potentially reduce their current sentence.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Where is the official voting record?

The official roll call vote is recorded at: voting record

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Jeffries, Hakeem S. [D-NY-8].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 361 - 66 (Roll no. 297). (text: CR H5477)

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-02.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law