In a letter to Patrick on Thursday, Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Roderick Ireland said the bill's so-called "three strikes" provision fails to give judges any discretion in the sentencing of violent felons.
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick watches President Obama speaking on television about the Supreme Court's ruling on Obama's health care overhaul, Thursday, June 28, 2012, in Boston. Patrick hailed the court's ruling as a victory for the role of government in helping people help themselves. He said the law gives families more security while holding insurers accountable. (AP Photo/The Boston Globe, Bill Greene)More politics news
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In a letter to Patrick on Thursday, Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Roderick Ireland said the bill's so-called "three strikes" provision fails to give judges any discretion in the sentencing of violent felons.
The measure would bar parole for career criminals after a third violent crime.
Ireland also said an automatic appeals process in the bill could unnecessarily clog the high court's already busy docket.
Patrick requested the opinion of Ireland as he decides what to do with the bill. He has until Sunday to sign, veto or seek amendments to the measure.
The governor has also said the bill is lacking in judicial discretion.