10,000 Louisiana Prisoners Could Be Released Early
The new Louisiana budget (passed last week and effective July 1st) has been wreaking havoc with some government agencies. The problem seems to be a staggering difference in the plan to implement the budget and the funding to do so. Because of this oversight, several programs (like the food stamp program) are in danger of shutting down. Now, the Louisiana Department of Corrections is in danger of falling short financially. According to NOLA.com's interview with LDC Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc, the prison system in Louisiana will have no choice but to release 10,000 prisoners early over the next year unless funding to keep them locked up is found.
The department needs about $25 million to make ends meet. Without it - the prison system will not only start the early release program, but will also have to end programs like TOPS that help inmates earn a college degree behind bars.
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