Do Michigan's prison changes put the public at risk?

Earlier paroles.

Fewer parole violators returned to prison.

More commutations and pardons.

Lower security levels for many state prisoners.

These policies of the Michigan Department of Corrections, combined with Michigan's prisoner re-entry program, are translating into lower costs for the state and a shrinking prison population -- down more than 7,000, or nearly 14 percent, in three years. An MDOC-endorsed proposal to end Michigan's "truth in sentencing" law -- which requires prisoners to serve at least their minimum sentence -- would accelerate those trends if it passes the Legislature.  Read More...