SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (KWQC) – Illinois lawmakers are proposing a bill that could cut prison time for certain inmates.

The bill would challenge the Truth in Sentencing law and reduce the percentage of time certain inmates must serve before they could be considered for release.

The proposed House bill would further reduce that by 25% so someone currently required to serve their entire sentence could be eligible for parole after serving 75% of their sentence.

Lawmakers in favor of the bill argue it would save the state a lot of money and put the focus on rehabilitation.

“This is an incentive to go get courses, to get certification for jobs, to be able to get assistance when it comes to mental health or substance abuse,” state Rep. Barbara Hernandez said.

When asked about concerns on the early release of felons, Hernandez said everyone deserves a second chance, like those who were locked up as a minor.

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