HI HR75

Department of Public Safety is requested to develop and implement a medical release program for geriatric and chronically ill inmates.

Department must post information on its website regarding medical release criteria, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and average processing times.

Department must submit annual reports to the Legislature by January 31 each year regarding the medical release program, including inmate deaths, age and gender of deceased individuals, facilities where held, and available medical information.

Resolution notes that geriatric inmates cost states $70,000 per year (two to three times more than younger inmates) and that research shows older inmates pose little to no risk of reoffending.

Certified copies of the resolution must be transmitted to the Governor, Director of Public Safety, and the Hawaii Paroling Authority.