California Faces $5 Billion Lawsuit Over Unpaid 'Gate Money' to Released Inmates

A class action suit claims the state has failed to pay $200 to prisoners upon release, violating a 1973 statute and potentially costing taxpayers billions.

• Former San Francisco DA Chesa Boudin is leading a class action lawsuit against the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).
• The lawsuit alleges that CDCR has unlawfully deducted fees from the $200 'gate money' owed to released prisoners, a practice dating back to a 1973 law.
• Approximately 30,000 inmates are released annually, with many receiving less than the mandated amount due to deductions for clothing and transportation.
• The suit seeks retroactive payments, cessation of deductions, and interest on withheld sums, potentially costing the state up to $5 billion.
• Plaintiffs claim the lack of full payment undermines public safety by leaving released inmates financially vulnerable, increasing the risk of homelessness and recidivism.

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