On average, state corrections budgets have received more new funds than higher education for the past three years. (National Conference of State Legislatures, 1993)
About 80% of state drug control spending goes to the criminal justice system, compared to 20% for education and treatment. Correctional services receive the largest share: 43%. Yet according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, each dollar spent on treatment saved $4-$7 in reduced costs to the public and $3 in increased productivity. (Office of National Drug Control Policy, 1993, 1994)
For every dollar state and local governments spend on treatment and prevention, nearly four are spent on criminal justice activities. (Office of National Drug Control Policy, 1993, 1994)
The state growth rate for corrections spending for FY 1996 is 9.2%, which is also the average growth rate in spending for the past seven years. The growth is primarily due to more rigorous sentencing practices and rehabilitation which have led to higher spending on staff. (National Conference of State Legislatures, 1995)
28 states increased their corrections spending at rates at least double the expected rate of inflation (3.3%). Florida increased spending 50%. Corrections spending exceeded the expected rate of inflation in 39 states. (National Conference of State Legislatures, 1995)
1995; The Sentencing Project, October 1995)
Introduction - Issues - Drugs and Crime - Correctional Costs - Mandatory Minimums
Impact - Intensive Treatment - Treatment Works - Priority - Affects Us - Credits
Copyright - Drug Strategies, 1999