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Legislation could offer some inmates reduced sentences

A growing number of women are incarcerated in the U.S. and many of them give birth in prison or jail.
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A bipartisan package of bills could offer some inmates an earlier release or parole date. That would happen through productivity credits earned by completing educational and vocational programs.

Republican state Representative Bronna Kahle is a bill sponsor. She believes the bills would reduce re-offending.

"This is an opportunity for Michigan to help increase our public safety and reduce crimes and help victims by reducing recidivism through providing incentives for rehabilitation."

The option would not apply to people who are not parole-eligible or those convicted of certain crimes, including murder or human trafficking.

Eligible prisoners would be allowed to earn no more than two years’ worth of credits, or 20% of their overall sentence, whichever is less time.