Resolution Number SF08.12

Supporting Older Women & Men In Prison

WHEREAS, the population of older prisoners in the United States is increasing rapidly so that by 2030 one-third of the U.S. prison population will be geriatric, and California has the largest prison system, and this aging crisis is due to longer sentences, mandatory minimum sentencing laws and tighter parole policies; and

WHEREAS, studies have shown prisoners are physiologically 10 years older than their chronological age, causing older inmates to have costlier requirements, and producing ballooning hidden costs, with the average cost being two to three times that of younger prisoners, while prison regulations traditionally do not consider aging in the management of daily activities and assignments, thus increasing the vulnerabilities of older inmates; and

WHEREAS, women and men reaching social security age are denied their benefits while incarcerated and face impediments to apply and receive financial support for themselves and their families;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the California Democratic Party calls on the California State Legislature to urgently study the problem of imprisoned older women and men in California and advocate for improving prison regulations, medical and monetary benefits as well as conditions of parole and release, receiving benefits like Social Security and SSDI or SSI while in prison; and

THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the California Democratic Party forward this resolution to the Democratic members of the State Assembly and Senate.

Authored by Floyd Allen 56th AD; Maureen Allen 56th AD
Passed by Los Angeles County Democratic Party (Contact: Agi Kessler)

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Adopted by the Executive Board
Of the California Democratic Party
At Its Executive Board Meeting
Westin Hotel, Millbrae
June 15, 2008