reconstruction inc.

Fight for Lifers (FFL) is a program of Reconstruction that addresses the concept of Life without the possibility of parole, for men and women in the State of Pennsylvania. At present, there is no chance of people serving a life sentence to be released on Parole.Fight for Lifers (FFL) supports people serving a life sentence in PA., and their families, working to abolish this type of sentencing. In addition, FFL has a sister organization located in Pittsburgh, PA. (i.e. Fight for Lifers West). This program has three focus areas:

1. Commutation: which at present is the only way in which a Lifer can be released from prison. This entails a submission of application to the Board of Pardons, and requires the signature of the Governor before the prison is released.

2. Juvenile Life without parole (JLWOP): Which is an issue that FFL is addressing in an attempt to stop the sentencing of children as adults, thus allowing the courts to send these children to prison for the rest of their natural lives.

3. PCRA: This is a process that allows a prisoner to litigate his.her case by submitting evidence to the courts, that could lead to his/her release from prison. However, since 1995, PA has changed the law so that a person has "one year" after final appeals to submit any evidence to the courts, or their legal arguments will not be considered. FFL believes that this is a constitutional violation of "due process", and interferring with "access to the courts", and the organization is fighting to get this legislation overturned.

LETTER FROM A LIFER!

Please read the open letter from Paula Johnson (a lifer at SCI-Muncy), who has shared some very important points with us. She (and all lifers) want and need your support.