2024 Colorado Proposition 128


2024 Colorado Proposition 128 was a successful ballot measure that appeared before voters during the 2024 general election in Colorado. The measure requires anyone convicted of a violent felony offense to serve 85% of their sentence before being eligible for parole or any sentence reductions for good behavior.

Background

Prior to the passage of Proposition 128, people convicted of violent felonies, including murder, assault, kidnapping, arson, burglary, and robbery, were required to serve a minimum of 75% of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Proposition 128 raised that requirement from 75% to 85%. Additionally, it bars inmates convicted of violent felonies from having their sentences reduced for good behavior until they've served at least 85% of said sentence. The proposition also requires anyone convicted of a violent felony three times to serve the full duration of their sentence.
Proposition 128 was referred to the ballot by citizen initiated petition. The petitioning and campaigning for the measure are being led by the conservative group Advance Colorado, who also backed Amendment 80 and Proposition 130. Roughly 220 people per year are convicted of a violent felony in Colorado, serving an average of 23 years in prison. As Proposition 128 is likely to increase the amount of time spent in prison for these felons, it is estimated to cost between $12million and $28million per year.

Contents

The proposition appeared on the ballot as follows:

Campaigns

Support

There was no major organized campaign in favor of Proposition 128, though petitioning for the measure was led by the group Advance Colorado. The state's official voter guide also offered the arguments in favor of the measure that it would increase public safety and ensure that justice is served for victims of violent crimes.

Opposition

Opposition to Proposition 128 was led by the group Coloradans For Smart Justice The official Colorado voter guide also offered the argument against the measure that it removes rehabilitation opportunities for inmates and would increase prison costs without reducing crime rates.

Results

Proposition 128 required a simple majority to pass. It did so with 62% of voters supporting the measure.