April 12, 2011
Corrections Funding in Governor Walker’s Budget
Governor Walker’s budget makes a number of changes to funding for the Department of Corrections (DOC). Two notable changes include funding for mental health initiatives and a repeal of 2009 early release provisions.
Mental Health Initiatives
The proposed budget provides DOC with $381,800 to fully fund women’s mental health services at the Taycheedah Correctional Institution and to provide security staffing for a new women’s unit at the Wisconsin Resource Center.
This continues funding for the programs, which were first funded in the 2009-2011 budget. These are important initiatives that will address the mental health and safety needs of the approximately 1,100 women housed in the correctional system or Wisconsin Resource Center each day.
DOC also receives $412,500 to fully fund a women’s mental health conditional release program under the Becky Young community corrections appropriation. This appropriation aims to increase public safety and reduce recidivism. The program is expected to serve an average daily population of 36 women.
Repeal of 2009 Act 28 Sentencing Modifications
The budget bill would repeal several provisions from 2009 regarding early release for inmates. It would:
- Delete positive adjustment time, which allows certain inmates to earn earlier release from prison by following regulations and performing required duties.
- Reduce a rehabilitation program that allows inmates with one or more treatment needs related to her criminal behavior back to a solely substance abuse program.
- Repeal provisions allowing DOC to discharge a person early from the remainder of their extended supervision or probation term after a certain time period.
- Repeal early release changes in sentencing for inmates with disabilities and mental illness.[i]
[i] DAWN Biennial Budget Explanation Part 3
