Public Policy Center | Part 3: Save Money and Increase Public Safety by Strengthening Criminal Justice Practices

Part 3: Save Money and Increase Public Safety by Strengthening Criminal Justice Practices

Introduction:

Since the early 1990’s, Texas has tripled the capacity of its prisons, increasing the number of prisoners faster than any other state. Texas’ rate of incarcerated adults per 100,000 is 40% higher than the national average; however, the crime rate in Texas is about 21% higher than the national average rate.[i]

In 2007, Texas was at crossroads – the Legislature had to choose whether to spend money on the maintenance and staffing of three additional prisons, or invest in strategies that would eliminate the need for costly prison construction. Although a couple of members fought to keep prison construction as the status quo, many other members from both sides of the aisle came together in an historic effort to support the strategies that will make our criminal justice system more responsible, just, safe, and cost-effective. Through the leadership and hard work of members on the House Corrections Committee,Senate Criminal Justice Committee, and Appropriations Committee, Texas chose to invest in diversions – including funding for drug and alcohol treatment programs, and systems to return people to their communities in a responsible way (including increased funding for halfway houses, additional out-patient drug treatment programs, and flexibility for judges and supervision staff).

Texas is finally realizing that the expensive “lock-em-up” approach has not increased public safety, nor addressed the root causes of crime head on. Our elected officials have started us down the path of reversing the decades of costly, irresponsible policies and spiraling prison growth, and because of their efforts, taxpayers will not be forced to shoulder the costs of additional prison construction and maintenance.

Texas cannot afford to undo the strides made during the 80th legislative session, especially in light of current economic realities. We must build on these past successes and create even bigger change in Texas. Perhaps most importantly, we must continue to find solutions that will not just look good on paper but actually be implemented to improve people’s lives. Both the Texas House and Senate must continue the bipartisan effort to implement smart and sustainable solutions that will reduce the risk of individuals re-offending and provide those who are re-entering society with tools for personal responsibility. Probation departments must be supported with the resources to ensure probationer success, treatment programs that focus on reducing criminal behavior must be fully funded and implemented, and practices throughout the Texas Department of Criminal Justice must be strengthened and monitored to increase efficiency.

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[i] National Institute of Corrections, “Corrections Statistics for the State of Texas,” Statistics for the State of Texas, http://www.nicic.org/features/statestats/?State=TX#3.