Newsom Wants to Cut 4,600 Empty Prison Beds to Help California’s Budget Deficit

But the governor doesn’t want to shut down more prisons with the anticipation that prison population could go up again if Californians vote to repeal Prop. 47.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom looks on during a press conference in Sacramento, Calif., on Feb. 1, 2023. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

With the state facing a significant budget deficit, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is proposing removing approximately 4,600 empty prison beds statewide to save about $80.6 million annually.

Across 13 prisons, 46 housing units will be shut down if his proposal is approved by the Legislature.