A plan that will require the state parole board to make objective decisions when considering releasing a prisoner has been approved by the Michigan Senate. State Senator John Proos tells us it will take into account the training a prisoner has completed while incarcerated, and will require that denial of parole for a prisoner who has a high probability of parole, as determined by the guidelines, “must be for a substantial and compelling objective reason.”
“This is a huge change in the way that we do our parole system,” Proos said. “It ensures accountability and it really gives the best chance upon release, which means a decreased cost for the revolving door when individuals fail after release.”
Proos says because 90% of prisoners in the state will one day return home, it makes sense to make sure they are prepared to succeed with clear and objective standards. He tells us objective, evidence-based criminal justice reform is something he’s always pushed for. The bill also would require an annual report to the legislature detailing prisoner and parole numbers and reasons for parole denials. It’s now on its way to the governor’s desk.
