To receive a reduction in sentence on medical grounds, the inmate must be suffering from a terminal illness—such as cancer, ALS, end-stage organ disease, or advanced dementia—or a debilitating medical condition.

First, the amendment broadens the Commission's guidance on what should be considered “extraordinary and compelling reasons” for compassionate release. It provides four categories of criteria: “Medical Condition of the Defendant,” “Age of the Defendant,” “Family Circumstances,” and “Other Reasons.”

Medical conditions – If an inmate is suffering from a terminal, incurable disease and doctors determine they have less than 18 months to live, they are eligible for a compassionate release.

Per Program Statement 5050.50, Compassionate Release/Reduction in Sentence, an inmate may file a request for a reduction in sentence with the sentencing court after receiving a BP-11 response, denial from the General Counsel, or the lapse of 30 days from the receipt of said request by the Warden.

With the exception of Iowa, every state has processes in place allowing for the release of certain incarcerated offenders who are nearing the end of their lives — commonly referred to as “compassionate release.”

The following is generally included in such a letter: A statement that compassionate release is being sought. The specific provision the application is being made under. How the criteria for the specific provision are met. Other applicable background information (e.g., medical, familial, etc.).

Congress authorizes compassionate release when a prisoner has “extraordinary and compelling” reasons for it. The BOP can bring a motion to the court asking that the sentence be reduced and the prisoner be released early.