BILL REQ. #:  S-3051.2 

Read first time 04/16/09.   Referred to Committee on Ways & Means.

     AN ACT Relating to correctional cost savings; and creating a new section.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   The legislature finds the need to effect cost savings through the possible use of sentencing changes, prison releases, prison closures, and decreased supervision. The legislature believes that through the use of strategic cuts and efficient use of resources, it can maintain current levels of community safety. The state intends to keep a close watch on projected incarceration trends and is prepared to recommend capital prison projects if needed.
     While research supports the cost benefit of incarcerating individuals who have violent tendencies and who are at a high risk to reoffend, it also shows that there is little benefit to the public in incarcerating nonviolent criminals. Punishment is a necessary component of the justice system; however, the state must find more cost-effective means of dealing with these criminals in a manner that benefits the taxpayer and public safety.