Editorial: New drug program for inmates on hold

Friday, Oct. 15, 1999 | 8:08 a.m.

Gov. Kenny Guinn developed a plan earlier this year to release as many as 150 low-risk state prison inmates -- who have had substance abuse problems -- up to 24 months before their terms had ended. Once freed, though, the inmates wouldn't be free to go as they please -- along with finding a job they would have to undergo an intensive supervision program monitored by District Court's drug court, including therapy and random testing to make sure they stay drug free.

But as the Sun's Cy Ryan reported Wednesday, a legal snag has prevented the program from getting under way. A section of the new law contains language that states until the prison system can show there have been savings, the inmates can't be released. As Guinn's legal adviser told Ryan, savings can't be realized, however, until sometime after the program is started, posing a Catch-22.

Obviously the next Legislature will have to clarify the law's language. It is encouraging, though, to see Guinn isn't waiting until 2001. His administration is aggressively trying to find other ways to get the program moving. One option being explored is a grant from the federal government. Another possibility includes asking the Legislature's Interim Finance Committee to permit the prison system to use the savings it has accrued in other parts of its budget and apply it toward this program.

Not only would the state save taxpayer dollars by releasing inmates early, but by enrolling them in a relatively inexpensive, yet strict drug counseling program, the odds are greatly reduced they'll return to prison. Just 14 percent of those who finish the drug court program in Las Vegas wind up back in jail, so it is hoped the state can find a way to get on board.