The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) announced Tuesday that they will release up to 3,5000 prisoners as well as take other measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 among the inmate population and the staff.

One of the immediate changes is to, “expedite the transition to parole for eligible inmates who have 60 days or less to serve on their sentences and are not currently serving time for a violent crime as defined by law, a sex offense, or domestic violence.” This expedited program is expected to release 3,500 prisoners who are eligible. They will also suspend intake from county jails, which is expected to reduce prisoners by 3,000.

In addition, they are suspending volunteer and visitation programs. To make up for family visits that are not allowed they are allowing inmates more free phone calls to their loved ones. They also are promising a commitment to hygiene including greater availability of soap and hand sanitizer.

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