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Three-Judge Panel to Consider Cap on California Prison Population

Two federal judges have cleared the way for a possible cap on the number of inmates in California prisons. Marianne Russ reports from Sacramento.

Three-Judge Panel to Consider Cap on California Prison Population

Two federal judges have cleared the way for a possible cap on the number of inmates in California prisons. Marianne Russ reports from Sacramento.

Federal Judges Lawrence Karlton and Thelton Henderson have granted a motion to create a three-judge panel. The panel's job is to consider whether to set a limit on the number of inmates in the state's prison system. That could lead to the early release of thousands of prisoners.

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The ruling is in response to successful lawsuits that argued overcrowding led to unconstitutional medical and mental health care in prisons.

In the decision, Judge Henderson noted that a cap would be a radical step, and said it might not be necessary if action by the state to relieve overcrowding brings medical care up to constitutional standards.

In a statement, Governor Schwarzenegger said he would appeal the order, and that he was confident the steps the state has taken would address the court's concerns.