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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 24, 2010
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House Approves Sen. Orie's Bills on Problem Solving Courts And Naming Area
Bridges for Local Hero Who Served in Vietnam
(HARRISBURG) -- The House of Representatives today approved two bills
sponsored by Senator Jane Orie (R-Allegheny) to establish problem solving courts
in Pennsylvania and name a bridge for a Medal of Honor Recipient, Chief Warrant
Officer Michael J. Novosel.
SB 383 would statutorily authorize problem solving courts, such as mental
health courts and drug courts, to divert non-violent offenders from more costly
prison cells and encourage rehabilitation through extensive supervision.
"As a former prosecutor and a strong advocate for improving our drug
rehabilitation and mental health systems, I believe this legislation is crucial
to helping those in need and to improving public safety," Orie said. "These
courts reduce prison overcrowding and improve cooperation between our criminal
justice system and drug and alcohol and mental health systems."
Orie said that specialized problem solving courts are being used across the
nation to save money and help offenders who have particular issues including
drug addiction and mental health issues. Allegheny County has been recognized
for the problem solving courts they have established, including the recent
creation of a veterans' court.
Orie said the average cost of building a new prison in Pennsylvania is $200
million and the cost of housing a prisoner can run as much as $30,000 a year.
According to the Department of Justice, approximately 20 percent of the
Pennsylvania prison population suffers from mental illness.
"So in many cases, we are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to
incarcerate mentally ill patients or those with addictions who would benefit far
more from treatment, medication and counseling," Orie said. "That's why this
legislation is so critical. Problem solving courts that can specialize in these
areas can ensure that offenders receive the most appropriate sentencing,
supervision, rehabilitation and treatment."
The House also approved Senate Bill 888, which would designate the bridges on
Route 28 in the Boroughs of Etna and Sharpsburg as the Chief Warrant Officer
Michael J. Novosel Memorial Bridges.
Novosel, an area native, received the Medal of Honor for bravery and heroism
while fighting in the Republic of Vietnam, distinguishing himself while serving
as commander of a medical evacuation helicopter.
"The extraordinary heroism displayed by Chief Warrant Officer Novosel was an
inspiration to his comrades in arms and reflects great credit on him, his unit
and the United States Army," Orie said. "These bridges will serve as a lasting
reminder of his courage and his service to our country.
Both bills must return to the Senate for final approval.
CONTACT:
Mike Sarfert
(717) 787-6538
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