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JUNE 19, 2001

The US Sentencing Commission will hold hearings in Rapid City today and tomorrow to determine if federal sentencing rules are unfair to American Indians in South Dakota.

Nine tribal leaders are expected among those who will testify on the issue. Many American Indians feel singled out or treated differently because of their race.

The commission can recommend changes to sentencing guidelines. The recommendations become law unless Congress changes them.

In an editorial, the Sioux Falls Argus Leader says the hearings are a healthy sign of a government willing to listen.

Get the Story:
Sentencing, race at issue in hearings (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 6/19)
Editorial: Fairness in sentencing addressed in hearings (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 6/19)

Relevant Links:
US Sentencing Commission - http://www.ussc.gov