2016 Second Extraordinary Session ENROLLED
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 30
BY SENATOR CLAITOR
A RESOLUTION
To urge and request the continued funding of reentry courts in Louisiana to reduce
recidivism and improve outcomes for offenders reentering society.
WHEREAS, in 2012, the Louisiana Legislature recognized the critical need to reduce
recidivism in the criminal justice system and, as a result, created reentry courts by Act No.
399 of the 2012 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature; and
WHEREAS, reentry courts are specialized courts that improve public safety through
the use of judicial oversight; and
WHEREAS, over time, the Louisiana Legislature created thirteen reentry courts to
address the needs of offenders, who will eventually reenter society, by providing skills,
training, education, and counseling while the offender is still incarcerated; and
WHEREAS, upon release, reentry courts closely supervise offenders, provide links
to social services, and monitor the transition of offenders back into society through extensive
case management; and
WHEREAS, a key element of the success of reentry courts is job placement for the
offender upon release from prison, which requires the support and assistance of local
businesses and communities; and
WHEREAS, the ultimate goal of reentry courts is for offenders to successfully
reenter society upon release and become a productive citizen; and
WHEREAS, the recidivism rates for reentry court participants are significantly less
than the average rate of recidivism which will result in increased savings to the criminal
justice system and a decrease in the crime rate in Louisiana over time; and
WHEREAS, given the current fiscal condition of the state, it would be of great
benefit to provide continued funding to reentry courts in Louisiana.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana
does hereby urge and request the continued funding of reentry courts in Louisiana to reduce
recidivism and improve outcomes for offenders reentering society.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the
Louisiana Supreme Court.
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
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