Early Prison Release: Not in Idaho

Public safety has become an issue as state budgets tighten. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn's early release program recently came under fire after reports surfaced that some criminals who got out were arrested for new offenses. Notwithstanding, a number of other states including Colorado, Washington, Kentucky, Oregon and California have opted to release state prisoners to reduce budget expenditures.

According to the Idaho Statesman, Idaho isn't interested in early release of prisoners even though it's trying to slash about $130 million more from Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's proposed budget. Department of Correction Director Brent Reinke's budget has already been cut to just $168 million, down from nearly $200 million in 2008.

Construction of a $50 million mental health prison has also been delayed until at least 2011 because Idaho officials are unsure if there will be enough money to staff the facility or cover bond payments to pay for the new prison.

To read the entire article: www.idahostatesman.com/531/story/1085069.html