Statement by The Council of State Governments Justice Center on Termination of Public Safety Grants

Washington, DC – Termination of bipartisan Department of Justice grants appropriated by Congress last week drew the attention of leaders and organizations across the country.

This comes at a time when states are showing how to reduce recidivism and improve justice system responses to violent crime and behavioral health crises. According to The Council of State Governments Justice Center’s nationwide recidivism report, state-level reincarceration rates are 23 percent lower nationwide since 2008.

Below are statements from leaders of the CSG Justice Center:

“State and local leaders are making great progress in stopping the revolving door of our prisons. Federal assistance and leadership has been key to improving outcomes, especially through the Second Chance Act, reauthorized by President Trump in 2018. 

These cuts impact programs with a proven track record of helping law enforcement, corrections leaders, and policymakers in all 50 states tackle recidivism, provide crisis services for individuals with mental illnesses and substance use disorders, protect victims, and use data to make our justice system more efficient and effective.

We urge the Department of Justice to restore funding for these programs to help state and local governments reduce crime and recidivism.”

Marshall Clement
The Council of State Governments Justice Center

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“As an Alabama state representative, senator, and now director of the Bureau of Pardon and Paroles, I’ve seen firsthand the good that these grants have made possible. 

For decades, these programs have helped state and local agencies across the country strengthen their communities, support law enforcement, and provide needed mental health and substance use treatment. We risk losing the great momentum we’ve been building without these critical grants.  

Funding programs that get people access to jobs, treat their behavioral health needs, and set them on a path to stay out of the justice system is the smart way to advance public safety.”

Cam Ward
Chair, Advisory Board