Stanford Criminal Justice Center Co-Director, Professor Joan Petersilia, discussed the new parole and prison reforms that went into effect in California on KPCC's AirTalk with Larry Mantle. Here's a summary of that broadcast, which can be heard in its entirety at KPCC's website:

California is implementing a plan to release about 6,500 inmates over the next year, under a state law that starts today. In an effort to reduce prison overcrowding and save money on the state budget, the plan calls for inmates deemed low-risk offenders to earn early release credits by completing rehabilitation and education programs. The state also will stop monitoring low-level offenders after release, meaning they are less likely to return to prison for minor parole violations. Opponents of the plan argue that it threatens public safety. How much money will this plan save the state? And is the approach sensible?

Guests:

Frank Stoltze, Reporter, KPCC

Paul Weber, President, Los Angeles Police Protective League

Clay Parker, Sheriff of Tehama County in Northern California and president of the California State Sheriff's Association

Secretary Matthew Kate, California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation

Joan Petersilia, Professor of Law, Co-Director, Stanford Criminal Justice Center