The Latest: Criminal justice bill passes early test vote
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Latest on the Senate's consideration of criminal justice legislation (all times local):
7 p.m.
A major criminal justice bill backed by President Donald Trump has cleared a key Senate hurdle, with supporters securing an 82-12 vote to advance the measure.
The Senate will consider a variety of amendments from opponents before holding a final vote later this week.
The bill would give judges more discretion when sentencing some drug offenders and allow about 2,600 federal prisoners sentenced for crack cocaine offenses before August 2010 the opportunity to petition for a reduced penalty.
The bill also boosts education and rehabilitation programs in federal prisons.
Republican Sen.