Barbara Dougan is Massachusetts Project Director, Families Against Mandatory Minimums ().

Massachusetts requires mandatory prison sentences for most drug crimes. It doesn’t matter if the person is an addict, played a minor role in the offense, or poses little risk to public safety – everybody goes to prison and often for a very long time. After 30 years of failed drug policies, Massachusetts is starting to make changes. But far more is needed. Learn about the latest developments – and how you can play a role