Vermont
Articles
04/23/2008 – WCAX-TV News: “Douglas: Act on Prison Reorganization”, by Kristin Carlson
“Gov. Jim Douglas, R-Vermont, says lawmakers should act this session on a plan to reorganize Vermont’s prison system.”
01/10/2008 – The Boston Globe: “Report Says State Could Save $54 Million in Corrections Costs”
“As state leaders struggle with growing Corrections Department costs, a consultant’s report says Vermont could save $54 million and decrease the prison population by 436 inmates over the next decade by making five changes.”
01/10/2008 – WCAX-TV News: “Growing Prison Population Poses Problem for State”
“Members of all three branches of state government gathered in Montpelier Wednesday evening to try to find a solution to Vermont’s growing prison population.”
Audio
05/06/2008 – VPR Regional News: “VT Edition: Richard Sears, Rob Hoffmann & Matt Valerio on Controlling Prison Costs”, by Jane Lindholm
“With Vermont’s corrections costs spiraling out of control, officials from all branches of government have been working on a plan to close one Vermont prison and change how several other facilities are used. The resulting savings will be re-invested in transitional housing and substance abuse programs. Experts say the plan, which was just approved by the Legislature, would not only save $3.5 million by 2010, but also curb recidivism and make Vermont’s communities safer. VPR’s Jane Lindholm talks about the plan with Vermont Corrections Commissioner Rob Hofmann, Dick Sears, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee and Defender General, Matt Valerio.”