The discussion is intended primarily for use by current parole practitioners, as well as staff in State legislative and executive offices and others who influence the criminal justice system. An overview explains how the shift in philosophy from rehabilitation toward just deserts in the 1970's resulted in restrictions or elimination of discretionary parole release decisionmaking in some States and how, in contrast, the prison overcrowding of recent years has highlighted the usefulness of discretionary parole release in managing prison populations. A discussion of current issues facing parole focuses on prison population increases, the use of risk-assessment instruments to aid in release decisions, and the policy roles of paroling authorities. Recommended future strategies for paroling authorities include the judicious use of policy, the cautious use of decisionmaking technology, the creation of professional supports, and careful thinking about goals. The analysis concludes that release discretion is needed as clearly now as it was when it was first conceived and that if paroling authorities manage their responsibilities more effectively, discretionary parole release will have a role in the future of criminal justice. Notes, appended list of information resources, and 25 references.