Reduce mandatory minimum prison sentences for nonviolent drug offenses to address prison overcrowding.
One policy goal, tracked across every bill that has carried it.
What’s happening with Smarter Sentencing Act of 2026?
The Smarter Sentencing Act of 2026, known as S. 3959, has been in the Senate Judiciary Committee since March 1, 2026. The committee members must hold a vote to move the bill forward, but most bills fail because they never receive a committee vote. No action has occurred on this legislation since March 1, 2026.
Updated July 9, 2026 · Generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.
Where it stands
Now carried by Smarter Sentencing Act of 2026 (S. 3959 (119th)) →
Legislative Progress
How we got here
Every bill that has carried this goal, oldest first.
Died with Congress · Jan 3, 2025
Died when the 118th Congress ended without final passage. Bills must be reintroduced under a new number to be revived.
Reintroduced · Jan 3, 2025
Reintroduced from S. 1152 (118th), which died when its Congress ended.
S. 1152 (118th) →
Vehicles
Who’s behind it
Richard Durbin (D-IL)Wrote and sponsored the current bill.