As a corrections nurse, I have spent years caring for incarcerated people long after their sentencing headlines faded. My work has included time in Maine’s correctional system, where I saw firsthand how the absence of parole shapes daily life inside prisons.

Many incarcerated people serving long sentences, particularly women, are often first-time offenders and among the most committed to rehabilitation. I watched individuals earn college degrees, maintain steady jobs and mentor others, becoming stabilizing forces within their housing units. They did this despite knowing that parole was not an option.

At the same time, I repeatedly saw people serving short sentences cycle in and out of incarceration. The contradiction is difficult to ignore. Those demonstrating sustained growth over decades are denied even the opportunity to have their progress reviewed, while the revolving door continues elsewhere.

From a health care perspective, the lack of parole has serious consequences. Hopelessness worsens mental health, accelerates chronic illness, and strains correctional staff and state resources. Prisons increasingly function as long-term care facilities without the infrastructure such care requires.

Parole is not automatic release. It is a structured, evidence-based review process that improves institutional safety, recognizes rehabilitation and allows people who no longer pose a public safety risk to return to their communities, work and pay taxes.

LD 1941, which would reestablish parole in Maine, will be reviewed at a public legislative hearing on Jan. 8. Testimony is open to the public, and community voices matter.

Maine has an opportunity to choose accountability, safety and fiscal responsibility. We should take it.

Melissa Kusmierz
South Portland