For fear of appearing soft on crime, Democrats have raised little objection over the years to draconian sentencing laws. This NY Times article gives us reason to hope that sentencing reform might be a priority in the new Congress.

Among those eagerly awaiting signs of change are federal judges, including many conservatives appointed by Republican presidents. They say the automatic sentences, determined by Congress, strip judges of individual discretion and result in ineffective, excessive penalties, often for low-level offenders.

Starting with the crack-powder cocaine sentencing disparity and moving to senselessly harsh mandatory minimums, Congress will have plenty to consider.

The House Judiciary Committee, under the new leadership of Representative John Conyers Jr., Democrat of Michigan, is planning hearings on the laws, starting later this month or in early February.

Punishing for the crime proved at trial, not for additional crimes imagined at sentencing, should also be high on the reform agenda.