Robyn A. Porter

JUSTICE REINVESTMENT PRESS CONFERENCE

 

 

I joined the Justice Reinvestment Coalition, Regulate DOC Healthcare Coalition, and Recovery for All to advocate for Justice Reinvestment for communities throughout Connecticut. We highlighted the Coalition’s funding proposals that address the staffing crisis, the need for better medical attention, mental health supports, and reentry programs, while providing more oversight throughout DOC healthcare.

Justice reinvestment, if done correctly, eliminates the barriers to successful reintegration as our justice impacted people are released back into our communities. It would redirect savings into the communities that have been and continue to be disproportionately impacted by crime. We have a moral and legal obligation to ensure that the needed resources are in place and that our justice-impacted population are treated with dignity and respect as we work with them to successfully reintegrate.

 

 

APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE BUDGET FOR JUDICIAL AND CORRECTIONS STATE AGENCIES   Following the press conference, I sat on the Appropriations Committee. I had the opportunity to ask Gary Roberge, Executive Director of Court Support Services, and Brian Hill, Executive Director of Administrative Services, what programs the state already has for juveniles and adults needing transitional housing.  Transitional housing is essential to Justice Reinvestment and is the start of a second chance for many.