Debate has resurfaced at the legislature over capping probation sentences at five years for some crimes in Minnesota. Republicans take issue with the decision by the Sentencing Guidelines Commission, and want more say about *who* is on that panel. But Democratic Senator Ron Latz from Saint Louis Park defends the action. “The commission was doing exactly what they were tasked with doing… trying to create more uniformity in sentencing in Minnesota,” Latz says.
Lawmakers can override that decision, but Saint Cloud Republican Jerry Relph says, “We shouldn’t have to do that if the Guidelines Commission stays within the scope of its authority.”
Expect the debate to continue this legislative session.