HI HCR171

Encourages the Hawaii Paroling Authority to consider granting parole to Class A felony inmates 18 months before maximum sentence expiration, Class B felony inmates 12 months before expiration, and Class C felony inmates 6 months before expiration.

Cites 2011 data showing 41 percent of inmates completing maximum sentences were classified as high-risk, compared to 12 percent in 2006.

References recidivism data indicating inmates released after serving maximum terms have a 69.3 percent recidivism rate versus 48.4 percent for parolees with supervision and support.

Notes that national crime victim advocates and corrections experts recommend balancing prison time with evidence-based programs that reduce recidivism rather than releasing inmates directly into the community without transition.

Directs transmission of the resolution to the Director of Public Safety, Hawaii Paroling Authority, county prosecuting attorneys, and relevant legislative committee chairs.