Group Looks for Less Expensive Prison Reforms
Monday, December 12, 2011
By: Gina Jordan

Dec.12, 2011 | WMFE - Florida taxpayers spent $2.4 billion dollars last year to incarcerate about 100,000 people in state prisons. The Florida TaxWatch Center for Smart Justice is looking for cost effective ways to reform Florida's justice system.

The center was created to find ways of reducing the prison population while keeping the public safe.
Center director Deborah Brodsky says most of the people admitted to Florida prisons last year were there for non-violent offenses.
“In terms of a state taxpayer investment, we would much rather see our taxpayers’ dollars going to things like education and healthcare, treating vulnerable populations.” Brodsky said. “And if we’re going to be investing in corrections, we want to really concentrate on that part of the mission which is to rehabilitate.”
Brodsky says one area of concern that must be addressed is the racial disparity behind bars.
“One out of 42 black Floridians is currently housed in our state prisons. The white comparison, which is striking, is one out of every 250.” Brodsky said.
There has been some success in justice reform. The report found lower crime rates, a decline in the state prison population, and fewer ex-cons returning to the system.