With prisons being overcrowded and Covid-19 spreading rapidly, it's becoming evident that we need solutions to the overpopulation problem in California's State Prisons.

Many of the people serving life sentences have learned their lessons long ago, striving to become the best version of their selves they can be. After serving decades behind bars, many have come to appreciate life and, having truly felt the devastating impact their actions have had, pledged to themselves never to hurt anyone again. This mindset can be evidenced within their Criminal Risk Assessment (CRA) conducted by the state's forensic psychologists. Those that are assessed at a "Low" risk are the least likely to reoffend. 

I am requesting that all lifers with a CRA of low be called before the Board of Parole Hearings to see if they can be found suitable for release during this pandemic. There is time for additional hearings, as they are currently held by teleconference. This would allow for those who actually pose little threat to society to return to their families. 

It's time, California, to let those out who have truly nothing but the best intentions upon release and who can make a positive impact on their communities by reaching out to others before it's too late.