The people have spoken and Proposition 57 is being implemented. Aug 1st of 2017 is the official start credit date, but roster lists and class assignments are being instituted. The inmates at Folsom State Prison and Folsom Women's Facility will be earning a week off for every 52 hours of credentialed programs taken. They must participate and complete all assignments, including homework if class required. A maximum of 4 weeks a year will be allowed.
Changes to State Law
Proposition 57, on the November 8, 2016 ballot in California was approved. It initiated a constitutional amendment and state statute. The constitutional amendment increased parole chances for felons convicted of nonviolent crimes and gave them more opportunities to earn credits for good behavior. It also allowed judges, not prosecutors, to decide whether to try certain juveniles as adults in court.
Inmate releases
Proposition 57 was designed to make individuals convicted of nonviolent felony crimes who served full sentences for their primary offense and passed screening for public security eligible for parole. That made about 7,000 inmates immediately eligible, according to The Associated Press.
Prison numbers dropped after California voters approved Proposition 47 in 2014, which reduced nonviolent, non serious crimes to misdemeanors and gave more inmates a higher chance for parole consideration. Proposition 57 was partly another response to the 2009 federal order mandating that California reduce its prison population numbers.
Additionally, Proposition 57 allowed inmates to earn credits for good behavior and educational or rehabilitative achievements. "Its essence is to provide an incentive," said Gov. Jerry Brown (D), who spearheaded the campaign. The measure provided for inmates to use credits to reduce time spent in prison.
Criminal Justice In California
In 2011, the United States Supreme Court ruled that California's prisons were overcrowded and violated the Eighth Amendment. The state was ordered to reduce its prison population. Prison numbers dropped after voters approved Proposition 47 in 2014, which reduced certain nonviolent felonies to misdemeanors and gave more inmates a higher chance for parole consideration. Proposition 57 was also designed to lower prison population numbers.