(AP) -- The Missouri Senate has endorsed a plan that could shorten the sentences of some criminals who are on probation or parole.
In a voice vote Wednesday, senators gave first-round approval to legislation that would give 30 days of additional credit to non-violent parolees or probationers for each month they go without a violation.
The bill would also allow for 120-day "shock" jail sentences for some felons who violate their probation or parole for the first time.
Sponsoring Senator Jack Goodman, a Republican from Mount Vernon, says the changes will help the state save money while reducing the number of people who commit crimes after they're released.
The bill must be approved once more before it goes to the House, which is working on similar legislation.
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