Resistance Behind Bars: The Struggles of Incarcerated Women

Washington Governor Proposes Early Release Of Some Inmates
BY AUSTIN JENKINS
Olympia, WA March 23, 2009 3:28 p.m.

Washington Governor Chris Gregoire is proposing the early release of some inmates to help balance the state budget. Specifically, the Governor floated the idea today [Monday] of releasing lower-risk female inmates whose children are in foster care.

Chris Gregoire: “Where we’re spending multiple dollars to care for the children and care for the individual when if the person was out we could get that type of typically alcohol and drug treatment in the community and have the family reunited and have very little risk in terms of public safety to the community.”

Gregoire offered few details on the number of women who might be eligible for early release – or how much it might save the state.

Women make up about 8 percent of the prison population. Most are non-violent and an estimated three-quarters of them have children.

Lawmakers are currently crafting a new two-year budget that aims to close a $9 billion shortfall.

http://news.opb.org/article/4580-washington-governor-proposes-early-rele...