BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — North Dakota lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 2128, a proposal that could change how the state handles violent crimes and offender rehabilitation. If the bill passes, it would require violent offenders to serve at least 85% of their sentences before being eligible for parole. The legislation also includes a mandatory minimum sentence of 14 days for anyone convicted of assaulting or resisting law enforcement. Director of Government Affairs at Prison Fellowship, Scott Peyton expressed concerns about the effects on inmate morale. “When individuals have nothing to look forward to, no hope, no opportunity for redemption, there becomes problems with keeping the morale, both staff and those who are incarcerated,” Peyton said. The proposal also includes provisions to expand opportunities for inmates to participate in work or educational programs outside prison, but only under strict conditions. Additionally, the legislation calls for quarterly updates on offender sentencing and parole eligibility to ensure state leaders stay informed.