PennLive Patriot News: The following commentary was published as a letter to the editor.

It’s time for Pennsylvania lawmakers to provide relief to the more than 1,000 incarcerated Pennsylvanians who are now serving unconstitutional sentences.

Pennsylvania holds the dubious honor of being among only a handful of states that have sentenced more men and women — many of whom are aging — to life without parole, a sentence that translates de facto to death by incarceration.

Philadelphia alone has sentenced more people to die in prison than any local jurisdiction on the planet.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court knows better and has wisely ruled that the law as written is unconstitutional.

Now lawmakers have an opportunity to pass House Bill 443, a practical and humane amendment that mitigates the unfairness and inequities that this archaic law has brought to bear.

HB 443 is not about being “soft” or “tough.” Evidence-based reforms like those proposed in this legislation have been shown to improve outcomes, reduce unnecessary burdens on taxpayers, and strengthen communities over the long term.

At a time when public trust in our institutions is fragile, Pennsylvania lawmakers have a chance to show us that our governments can work for the people—all the people.

It’s time to make death by incarceration illegal and give the individuals sentenced under this law and their families a second chance.

Carol Menaker, Nevada City, Calif.