press statement from Massachusetts FAMM

This is a report issued about the cost of incarcerating non violent drug offenders in the state of Massachusetts. It is very interesting yet only speaks to one state, but note worthy all the same.

MBA Drug Policy Taskforce Report

Press statement by Barbara J. Dougan, FAMM Project Director in Massachusetts. Click here

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 18, 2009

MBA report calls sentencing of nonviolent drug offenders too harsh and
costly; suggests top to bottom overhaul of state’s failed system
Reforms could save more than $25 million a year

BOSTON, Mass. — Massachusetts must enact meaningful drug reform for
non-violent offenders, focusing on education and treatment instead of
incarceration and punishment, according to a report of the
Massachusetts Bar Association’s Drug Policy Task Force. Mandatory
minimum sentencing reform and diversion to treatment, alone, could save
the state more than $25 million a year.

the full article can be viewed here