Key Findings: Improve Efficiency and Positive Outcomes Within Independent Juvenile Justice Agencies
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In Fiscal Year (FY) 2007, TYC spent $258 million on its facilities and programs for the approximately 2,276 youth received by local courts.[i]
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The amount of money spent on Texas’ juvenile justice system is $725.9 million annually. Of that money, $246.4 million (34%) goes to TYC, $99.9 million (14%) goes to TJPC, and $54.9 million (8%) comes from federal sources. The bulk of the funding comes from counties, which contribute $324.7 million (44%).[ii]
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Past decisions have resulted in TYC’s institutions being built in rural communities, which often lack the workforce to provide the intensive treatment needed by incarcerated youth.[iii]
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Youth in TYC have very complex and specialized needs. One-third of commitments have serious mental health issues, are chemically dependent, and have a documented history of abuse and neglect. Half come from families with histories of criminal behavior, and two-thirds come from chaotic home environments.[iv]
[i] Texas Sunset Advisory Commission. Sunset Advisory Commission Staff Report: Texas Youth Commission, Texas Juvenile Probation Commission, Office of the Independent Ombudsman. (2008), 6.
[ii] Ibid. 13.
[iii] Ibid. 15.
[iv] Texas Youth Commission. Who Are TYC Offenders? [Data file], http://www.tyc.state.tx.us/research/youth_stats.html