Louisiana Scores:
Sentencing
Parole Eligibility &
Grade: 
Score: 85/100
State Summary
Louisiana’s recent reforms established broad parole eligibility provisions for most people incarcerated in the state, and ensure that good behavior incentives are available. Presumptive parole ensures that decisions aren’t denied on an arbitrary basis.
Details
Broad Eligibility
Most offenses are eligible for parole in Louisiana.1
35/40 points
Good Behavior Incentives
Most individuals incarcerated in Louisiana are eligible for parole or good time release, establishing incentives for good behavior.2
25/30 points
Efficacy
Louisiana’s law allows for presumptive parole when most conditions of confinement are met. The 2018 discretionary parole grant rate of 53% and reflects a reasonable consideration of cases for parole.3 These rates suggest that the parole system is relatively effective, strategical granting of parole on a regular basis.
15/20 points
Geriatric Parole, Medical Parole, and Compassionate Release
Louisiana has a medical treatment furlough policy, allowing for the transfer of those with significant health or mobility issues.
10/10 points
Sources
1. Louisiana’s 2017 Criminal Justice Reforms, Pew Charitable Trusts, https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/issue-briefs/2018/03/louisianas-2017-criminal-justice-reforms
2. Ibid.
3. https://gov.louisiana.gov/assets/docs/CJR/2019-JRI-Performance-Annual-Report-Final.pdf