Detroit News’ Nolan Finley published an opinion article exploring how reducing Michigan’s prison population can help reduce state expenses. Finley cites evidence that older inmates who have served 10 years or more are less likely to commit crimes of any type if released. The article suggests that state budget cuts could start with Michigan’s prisons by releasing these older inmates. On average each inmate costs the state $40,000 a year to keep in prison. As Michigan looks to cut costs and cover a potential 6 billion dollar shortfall over the next two years, releasing these low-risk prisoners can have a meaningful impact on the state budget.
Read more here: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/columnists/nolan-finley/2020/05/27/finley-budget-cuts-should-start-prisons/5240689002/