The Effect of "Good Time" Policies on Correctional Release: A Multi-state Comparison

• In Event: Parole Practices and Reentry

Abstract

Studies indicate that as much as half of the prison population growth between 1998 and 2010 can be attributed to increases in time served. Existing studies of time served have been primarily limited to individual-level or pre/post law imposition comparisons, often within a single state. Consequently, we do not know the degree to which time served is driven by court-level sentencing practices versus state-level sentencing policies and correctional release mandates. Using data from the National Corrections Reporting Program, we identify if and how the amount of time and the proportion of their sentences for which offenders can expect to be incarcerated varies across states. The current study unpacks the complexity of time served, identifying the contribution of court imposed sentences, state-level sentencing laws, and correctional early release credit policies on length of incarceration and proportion of sentence served in prison.

Authors

• Megan Handley, University of Arkansas

• Mindy S. Bradley, University of Arkansas

• Rodney L. Engen, University of Arkansas