Senate Leadership
June 30, 2008
Senate Majority Leader Urges Governor Rell to Reconsider Cuts to Criminal Justice Programs
Gov. Rell to slash alternative incarceration programs, delay other critical investments as new budget year begins
Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney (D-New Haven) says he is deeply concerned about Gov. Rell's decision last week to slash millions of dollars from vital criminal justice initiatives, including alternative incarceration programs, which are proven to reduce recidivism rates, and costs associated with traditional incarceration.
It appears Gov. Rell is also delaying adding probation officers, as approved in the criminal justice bill that was passed overwhelming by the General Assembly during the 2008 legislative session.
"We have seen sharp increases in violence in the last few weeks in many communities across the state, including New Haven and Hartford," said Senator Looney. "Now is not the time to cut funding for programs that make our streets safer."
In Gov. Rell's budget rescissions, more than $4.3 million is cut from alternative incarceration programs for adults and juveniles, which amounts to more than 5 percent of the funds appropriated for such programs. Under CGS 4-85, it is not permissible for Gov. Rell to make cuts exceeding 5 percent of appropriated funds for a certain program without approval from the Finance Advisory Committee.
"We cannot skimp on public safety," said Senator Looney. "Gov. Rell has said so herself repeatedly. These vital programs actually keep felons off our streets and help them become productive members of society. As a criminal defense attorney, I see firsthand the benefits of alternative incarceration programs, which provide support services to non-violent offenders who have a chance at turning their life around and avoiding a life of crime. To cuts these programs is a grave mistake and I urge Gov. Rell to reconsider, just as she did months ago when she threatened to not fully fund the new criminal justice legislation."
Both Gov. Rell and the Appropriations Committee proposed increasing funding for the alternative incarceration programs in original budget recommendations. Gov. Rell wanted to increase funding by approximately $8 million and the Appropriations Committee suggested more than $11 million.
"We all understand the budget challenges we face in this current economic climate, but cutting millions from successful criminal justice programs is not a wise decision for our families," said Senator Looney. "These initiatives should not be regarded as optional programs that depend of a positive economic climate, but rather as essential public safety measures."
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