JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri lawmakers are working on two measures that would reduce the number of people on probation and parole. But those measures could actually make it harder for offenders to fulfill their sentences after prison.
Both bills would allow non-violent probationers and parolees to get their sentences reduced for each month they go without a violation. The bills could reduce the number of people under supervision by 2017.
But cost estimates with the bills say that if the number of people under supervision is reduced, the state might have to increase the $30 monthly fee it charges probationers and parolees.
Three probationers contacted by The Associated Press say that could make it harder to stay out of jail because offenders often have low-paying jobs when they leave prison.
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Corrections overhaul bills are HB1525 and SB699
Online:
Legislature: http://www.moga.mo.gov