California Prisons

Op-ed | California Promised Miguel Rivera a Root Canal. The Prison Gave Him a Choice: Lose the Tooth or Fight Back

By Casey OlsonJuly 14, 20260 comments

An inmate at Folsom State Prison, Miguel Rivera, was reportedly misinformed by a dental provider regarding the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s (CDCR) coverage for root canal procedures. This incident underscores persistent concerns regarding systemic medical neglect and the efficacy of the grievance resolution process within the state’s correctional facilities.

California Legislature Backs Additional Prison Closure as State Faces Billions in Prison Infrastructure Costs

By David M. GreenwaldJune 4, 20260 comments

Legislative leaders in California have proposed the closure of an additional state prison by the 2027-28 fiscal year. Proponents, including Californians United for a Responsible Budget, assert that such a measure would yield substantial financial savings, addressing the state’s persistent budgetary challenges and the correctional system’s estimated multi-billion dollar infrastructure requirements.

Prison Closures Could Save Billions, Challenge CA’s Rising Prison Spending

By Rebecca KavalauskasMay 30, 20262 comments

California’s correctional spending is projected to increase by nearly $1 billion, despite a decline of approximately 70,000 incarcerated individuals since 2010. This fiscal trend has drawn criticism from advocacy groups, including Californians United for a Responsible Budget (CURB), which argues the state is allocating increased resources to a diminishing carceral system. CURB advocates for prison closures as a cost-saving strategy, citing the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s (CDCR) failure to meet projected savings targets and the substantial expenditures associated with maintaining unoccupied facilities.

Advocates Condemn Newsom Budget for Omitting Prison Closure Plan

By Kiyana ColeMay 17, 20260 comments

Criminal justice advocates and formerly incarcerated organizers have criticized Governor Gavin Newsom’s revised state budget for its failure to commit to additional prison closures. The critique stems from concerns over California’s aging prison population, which faces increasing health and climate-related dangers. This stance contrasts with the state’s continued investment in prison infrastructure upgrades, a point highlighted by advocacy groups.