Nonviolent Inmates Could Get Out Early

RICHMOND -- Leaders in the Virginia Senate are drawing up plans to overhaul the state's criminal sentencing policies so that hundreds, perhaps thousands, of inmates can be released from prison early, a politically risky move aimed at saving tens of millions of dollars.

Under the proposal being drafted by Senate leaders from both parties, Virginia would expand its use of home monitoring and make it easier for nonviolent offenders to be released after they complete drug treatment programs.

The state would then close one or two prisons, which would free up at least $50 million to help address a $3 billion budget shortfall.

The Senate plan, which is expected to be finalized this week, expands Gov. Timothy M. Kaine's earlier cost-cutting proposal to allow some prison officials to release nonviolent inmates 90 days before the end of their sentences.

Senate leaders are considering adopting Kaine's program but clarifying who would be eligible for early release.

"In talking to my constituents, they are not interested in spending $25,000 a year to incarcerate these people when we are talking about cutting higher education, public education and health care," said Sen. Janet D. Howell (D-Fairfax).

In an interview Monday, Kaine (D) said he supports the Senate's efforts.

"It's a wise way to prevent jail overcrowding while saving some money while we are doing it," said Kaine, although he cautioned that "there are still a lot of details" to be worked out.

The Senate proposal will probably trigger a statewide debate about how far Virginia should go in cutting costs associated with housing 30,000 inmates. Even before the Senate plan is completed, House Republicans are saying they may try to derail it, setting up a clash that could hamper efforts to reach a budget agreement before the session ends Feb. 28.

"This is going to be a real showdown on philosophy," said Del. David B. Albo (R-Fairfax). "They want to release drug dealers, and none of us are willing to release drug dealers."

Senate leaders say the budget shortfall is forcing them to look for savings within the state's prison system.

Virginia operates 41 correctional facilities. The typical facility has 1,024 beds and costs $25 million annually to operate. In December, Kaine proposed that four prisons be closed as part of ongoing budget cuts. Howell said the Senate would like to add to that list.