A new law in New York State will keep more people out of prison and help the overcrowded Rikers jail in New York City. Governor Hochul signed the Less Is More Act which will prevent parolees from returning to prison for technical violations. Criminal Justice Reform Advocate Donna Hylton says this will mean physical freedom.
“It’s also about the mental freedom of knowing that your family won’t be ripped apart and your success won’t be erased because you make a mistake or you need help.”
Hochul ordered nearly 200 prisoners released right now from Rikers under this act. She’s also sending another 200 inmates from Rikers to state jails. State lawmakers recently toured the facility and saw an overcrowded, understaffed and poor conditioned jail.