State Sentencing and Corrections Policy in an Era of Fiscal Restraint

• NCJ Number: 195233
• Author(s): Ryan S. King; Marc Mauer
• Date Published: 2002
• Length: 20 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation; Open Society Foundation
• Corporate Author: Sentencing Project
• Sale Source: NCJRS Photocopy Services; Sentencing Project
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded May 17, 2002

Annotation

This article provides an overview of recent legislative initiatives that have changed the direction of State sentencing and corrections policy, and a discussion of how recent fiscal concerns have impacted this legislation.

Abstract

This article examines the recent change in State sentencing and corrections policy. During the 2001 legislative session, legislators adopted bills that reversed the 1990’s policy of mandatory sentencing and long terms of incarceration. The main goal in 2001 seemed to be to reduce incarceration. The authors highlight four States that revised mandatory and truth in sentencing laws, five States that expand drug treatment programs as an alternative to incarceration, and seven States that passed legislation aimed at reducing the degree of prison overcrowding. In the second session the authors turn to a discussion of recent State fiscal concerns that will ultimately have an affect on the policies of the State corrections systems. States are cutting current corrections budgets as well as planning on reductions in the upcoming fiscal year. The authors demonstrate how these cuts effect the policies of the State corrections systems. Specific examples from various States are offered. The article concludes by outlining some of the fiscal and public safety implications of these policy changes.