COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – Ohio prison officials want to be able to save money by releasing inmates who require round-the-clock medical care or are otherwise incapacitated.
 
Department of Rehabilitation and Correction chief Gary Mohr asked for the change during his budget testimony Thursday before an Ohio House subcommittee.
 
He wants to be able to allow judicial medical release in cases recommended by the department, although it wouldn't cover inmates serving life or capital punishment sentences.
 
The state is paying $1 million a year caring for 58 people who require round-the-clock medical care, including two who are brain dead and on life-support. Others have dementia and don't even know they are in prison.
 
Prison officials think the inmates could be better served in nursing homes. The state prosecutors' association opposes the change.