just sentences for offenders. Mandatory sentences have not been conclusively shown to reduce recidivism or deter crime. (17) The limited resources in the Federal criminal justice system should be used to protect society by incapacitating dangerous and violent offenders who pose a threat to public safety. (18) The Federal judiciary has the expertise and is in the best position to sentence each offender and determine who should be sent to Federal prisons and the amount of time each offender should serve. 3. Approval of certain prosecutions by Attorney General A Federal prosecution for an offense under the Controlled Substances Act, the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act, or for any conspiracy to commit such an offense, where the offense involves the illegal distribution or possession of a controlled substance in an amount less than that amount specified as a minimum for an offense under section 401(b)(1)(A) of the Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 841(b)(1)(A) ) or, in the case of any substance containing cocaine or cocaine base, in an amount less than 500 grams, shall not be commenced without the prior written approval of the Attorney General. 4. Modification of certain sentencing provisions (a) Section 404 Section 404(a) of the Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 844(a) ) is amended— (1) by striking not less than 15 days but