Proposal Presented for the Master Plan For Aging (#122)
Disclaimer
Throughout the MPA process, more than 100 proposals were developed thanks in particular to thousands of hours of work by external stakeholders and members of the public. These proposals and the MPA Council commentary are being submitted to the Governor and shared with policymakers and the public to inform policymaking. These proposals represent a starting point for discussion. Further discussion is necessary between relevant state agencies and stakeholders to both refine these proposals and assess which may be appropriate to adopt and implement.
Summary
Support older incarcerated adults in applying for release mechanisms by utilizing existing community-based programs, engaging with experienced nonprofits in providing application processes for release mechanisms, and expanding access to these nonprofit organizations.
Justification
Incarcerated older adults often experience accelerated aging and poorer health outcomes. As the number of incarcerated older adults increases, partnership with experienced nonprofit organizations can facilitate and provide support for incarcerated older adults seeking reentry and release mechanisms. Such partnerships can additionally ensure more effective community-based healthcare than that of correctional settings.
Full Proposal
The state should partner with nonprofits to support older incarcerated individuals in applying for release mechanisms such as parole, gubernatorial clemency, and medical parole. Healthcare can be delivered much more effectively in community settings compared to correctional settings, especially geriatric care.
- Build on Existing Programs: Utilize the reentry programs of the Fortune Society, Osborne Association, RAPP, and Parole Preparation Project, among other community-based organizations.
- Engage nonprofits with experience in providing reentry services to provide support for older incarcerated individuals with the application processes for medical parole, clemency, and other release mechanisms.
- Facilitate or expand access to correctional facilities for these nonprofits by directing facility directors to allow access.
MPA Council Commentary
This proposal is categorized as long-term. The facilitation of partnerships may require an assessment of existing release initiatives. DOCCS can continue to provide medical parole as applicable and support the use of re-entry services by nonprofit organizations.