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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Kathy Manderino |
  
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Manderino bill to reform prison parole system goes to governor
HARRISBURG, Sept. 23 – State Rep. Kathy Manderino, D-Phila./Montgomery, said legislation she introduced that would make needed changes to the state’s prison parole system is going to the governor for his signature.
House Bill 6 is part of a package of legislation designed to relieve prison overcrowding, improve public safety, reduce repeat offenses and save taxpayers money.
The bill would require the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole and county courts to allow eligible state prisoners to qualify for early release through a Recidivism Risk Reduction Incentive. Under the program, non-violent offenders could receive up to 25 percent off their minimum sentence if they complete required programs, do not commit any infractions while in prison, pose no risk to society and if the board grants parole. Current law does not provide incentives to reduce the risk of subsequent offenses.
"Offering an incentive for non-violent offenders would reduce recidivism," Manderino said. "Public safety wouldn't be compromised because parolees would still receive the appropriate supervision."
Under the bill, judges would retain full discretion to set overall maximum and minimum sentences, and the board would retain the right to deny parole. Prosecuting attorneys and courts would also need to be notified of eligible prisoners. If they object to parole being granted, they could file a written objection stating why the prisoner should be denied. If no objection is filed, the board would be able to release the prisoner on parole when his or her minimum sentence expires.
One year after normal parole, eligible offenders would have to meet with their parole officer once a year until the expiration of their sentence. Parolees would need to continue paying restitution and provide updated contact information if they change their job or place of residence.
"Housing prisoners can cost $60,000 per inmate," Manderino said. "This bill would help with prison overcrowding and cut down on expenses while allowing non-violent offenders to begin making their way back into society."
Defendants would be ineligible for the program if they have been convicted of certain offenses, including use of a deadly weapon, sexual assault and other violent crimes. Those who have been convicted of equivalent crimes in other U.S. states and territories or other countries would also be ineligible.
House Bill 6 would also allow an offender to be released on the designated date as long as he or she has served the required amount of time without incurring disciplinary action, and would clarify current law to better protect confidential victim information housed with the board.
The package of legislation is supported by numerous groups, including the state Board of Probation and Parole, Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association, state Commission on Sentencing, Pennsylvania Sheriffs Association and the Pennsylvania Prison Society.
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