This project addresses the problem of ostensibly race-neutral policies that increase sentence lengths in the United States. In order to contribute to addressing this problem, this analysis theoretically frames racial impact statements around color-blind racism and racial structure. Since sentence lengths are most directly determined at the state level, this analysis focuses on one state, Michigan. Similar to many states, Michigan underwent marked reforms in sentencing in the 1990s, and this research examines the impact on sentence lengths for violent offenses. Findings coincide with past statements on the influence long sentences exert upon high prison populations and durable racial disproportionality within. Ultimately, theoretical and empirical evidence offer support for the application of racial impact statements as a mechanism to address racially uneven sentencing outcomes.
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