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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2010
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Governor Approves Orie Legislation on Problem Solving Courts Legislation

Legislation sponsored by Senator Jane C. Orie, (R-Allegheny), which seeks to improve public safety while at the same time providing more extensive supervision of non-violent offenders was signed into law by Governor Ed Rendell.  Problem solving courts, which include mental health courts, drug courts and veterans courts, divert non-violent offenders from more costly prison cells and encourage rehabilitation through extensive supervision.

"Act 30 (Senate Bill 383) statutorily authorizes the implementation of problem solving courts in the Commonwealth," Orie said. "This concept is a win-win proposition for our criminal justice system and for those individuals who need assistance. They will make our communities safer, and they will save tax dollars."

"These courts will reduce prison overcrowding and improve cooperation between our criminal justice system and drug and alcohol and mental health systems," Orie said.  "As a former prosecutor I believe this legislation is crucial to helping those in need and to improving public safety."

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.

Last year Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Seamus P. McCaffery addressed the Senate Judiciary Committee in support of Senate Bill 383 and is a strong supporter of problem solving courts.

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 and at less expense to the taxpayers," Orie said.  "That's why this is so critical.  As research has shown, problem solving courts that can specialize in these areas can ensure that offenders receive the most appropriate sentencing, supervision, rehabilitation and treatment."

CONTACT:

Mike Sarfert, Chief Counsel
(717) 787-6538