Michigan Enacts New Law for Medical Parole Releases

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed a new law aimed at facilitating the release of individuals from Michigan prisons who are in severe health conditions and pose minimal risk to public safety. This legislation replaces a previous 2019 law that was criticized for its vagueness and ineffectiveness, having resulted in only one release since its enactment. The Michigan parole board will now have the authority to transfer eligible inmates to medical facilities, hospices, or their homes, particularly those with a life expectancy of less than 18 months. Maria Goellner, director of state policy at Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM), emphasized the financial benefits of the new law, stating that it would alleviate the burden on the Corrections Department while allowing medically frail individuals to spend their final days with family. Senator Erika Geiss, a Democrat from the Detroit area and sponsor of the bill, echoed this sentiment, calling the changes "common sense." The new law is expected to impact approximately 12 to 20 individuals annually, although those convicted of crimes that carry a potential life sentence will not be eligible for release. Additionally, the parole board has the option to require electronic monitoring for released individuals. Larry Smith, a former inmate who was exonerated after nearly 27 years in prison, shared his experiences with lawmakers, highlighting the presence of inmates suffering from conditions like dementia and Parkinson's disease who posed no threat to society. He advocated for the release of individuals who could safely reintegrate into their communities.