U.S. prison populations are aging rapidly, with older inmates costing more to house but reoffending less, prompting bipartisan support for early release laws.

The number of U.S. prisoners aged 55 and older has risen to nearly one in six as of 2022, driven by past tough sentencing laws, and could reach one-third by 2030. Aging inmates face higher medical costs and inadequate facilities, straining correctional systems. Despite this, older prisoners are far less likely to reoffend, making early release a potential cost-saving, bipartisan solution. Some states, including Maryland, have passed “second look” laws allowing eligible older or seriously ill inmates to seek parole, with new legislation set to take effect in October.