BOSTON - The Catholic Bishops of Massachusetts, led by Boston Cardinal Sean O'Malley, have reaffirmed their support for lawmakers to work together to pass "historic" criminal justice legislation.

The Criminal Justice Reform Committee of Conference is working at the State House to reconcile the Massachusetts House and Senate criminal justice reform bills.

Legislators, as well as Gov. Charlie Baker, have said they hope work will be completed soon.

A letter sent to the six committee members Feb. 27 and copied to the governor said the four clergy were "pleased to learn that comprehensive criminal justice reform remains a top priority of Governor Baker along with the leadership of the House and Senate this legislative session."

"That responsibility however presents you with the opportunity to craft legislation that will revolutionize how the legal system deals with certain types of criminal offenses. The legislation has the potential to benefit society as a whole and be life changing to many individuals and families throughout this great Commonwealth," the letter states.

"Issues such as eliminating certain mandatory minimum sentences, creating rehabilitation and reentry programs, providing service to those suffering from mental health struggles must be at the forefront of your discussions."

Besides O'Malley signers include Worcester Bishop Robert J. McManus; Springfield Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski and Fall River Bishop Edgar M. de Cunha.



The letter tells lawmakers that the bishops "fully support your work and urge you, and ultimately the full legislative body, to join together in the effort to pass this historic legislation."



It asked them to consider the following reforms: