NC- Governor approves release of ill inmates

6-11-2008 North Carolina:

Some of the state prison system's most expensive inmates — those who are terminally ill or totally disabled — could soon be released to spend the rest of their days at home or in health-care facilities.

Gov. Mike Easley on Tuesday signed into law legislation that creates a path for these dying and disabled patients to be released before their sentences are completed, so long as they have an appropriate care plan. The law took effect with his signature.

The move could free up as many as 160 beds a year in a state prison system that is at maximum capacity. Several hundred newly convicted felons are being held in county jails until prison beds open up.

Inmates would have to ask Correction Department officials for the early release. Those convicted of serious crimes such as murder or rape would not be eligible. If an infirm inmate became able-bodied after release, he or she would have to return to prison.

Infirm inmates cost the state far more than other inmates because of their health care requirements. Correction officials said a sampling of 20 such inmates showed an average cost of $87,000 per year.

The law is one of two bills sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand, a Fayetteville Democrat, to help reduce a prison population that is expected to climb past 40,000 next year. A second bill allowing illegal immigrants serving time for some nonviolent crimes to be released for deportation could be taken up by the full Senate today. ..News Source.. by Dan Kane, Staff Writer