Georgia’s prison system is overcrowded, unsafe, and in urgent need of reform. One of the most pressing issues is the continued housing of non-violent offenders alongside violent offenders, placing vulnerable individuals at unnecessary risk and increasing violence inside our facilities.

In addition, many non-violent inmates who have two years or less remaining on their sentences are repeatedly denied parole — even when they are eligible, maintain good behavior, and demonstrate rehabilitation. Prolonged incarceration in these cases does not improve public safety and places an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers.

Unsafe prison environments also cause lasting psychological harm. Many incarcerated individuals develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to constant exposure to violence, threats, lockdowns, and chronic fear. When people are released without adequate mental health support, untreated PTSD often leads to technical parole violations or behavioral struggles resulting in individuals being sent back to prison when what they truly needed was counseling and stability.

This cycle of trauma, release, violation, and reincarceration does not enhance public safety. Instead, it increases recidivism, drives up state costs, and causes long-term harm to individuals, families, and communities.

We are calling on Georgia leadership to implement common-sense parole reforms that prioritize safety, fairness, rehabilitation, and mental health.

We ask that Georgia take immediate action to:

Separate non-violent inmates from violent offenders whenever possible to reduce violence and protect lives inside Georgia prisons.

Grant earlier parole consideration and approval for non-violent offenders with two years or less remaining on their sentence, particularly those with clean disciplinary records and documented rehabilitation.

Increase transparency and accountability in parole decisions, including clearer explanations for denials and meaningful consideration of institutional recommendations.

Recognize and address the mental health impact of incarceration, including PTSD caused by unsafe prison environments, and prioritize treatment, counseling, and reentry support over reincarceration for technical violations.

Use evidence-based, data-driven practices that reduce recidivism, support successful reentry, and improve public safety.

Parole reform is not about being “soft on crime.” It is about being smart, just, and humane — and about preventing trauma from becoming a revolving door back into prison.

As families, loved ones, and community members, we see firsthand how delayed parole decisions and unsafe prison conditions damage rehabilitation and mental health. This petition represents the voices of those directly impacted and those who believe Georgia can do better — for public safety, for families, and for the future of our communities.

We urge Georgia’s leaders to act now.