California Governor Gavin Newsom is proposing to remove approximately 4,600 empty prison beds statewide to save about $80.6 million annually amid a significant budget deficit. If approved, 46 housing units across 13 prisons will be shut down. Newsom emphasized that this move would result in growing annual savings and provide flexibility in managing the state’s prison population.
While a report from the Legislative Analyst’s Office suggested that closing five prisons by 2028 could save the state about $1 billion annually, Newsom expressed caution about such a drastic measure. He highlighted concerns about potential increases in the prison population due to changes in state law and urged a prudent approach.
The governor also noted that previously closing seven yards and four prisons will save the state approximately $3.4 billion between 2021 and 2027. As the state continues to see population declines due to sentencing reductions, there are currently 15,000 empty prison beds statewide, a number that could rise to 19,000 by 2028.
Experts point out that maintaining underutilized facilities results in unnecessary costs for the state. By reducing capacity and deactivating prisons, significant savings can be achieved through reductions in staff and operational expenses.
Democratic lawmakers support the idea of more closures to prioritize core services over maintaining empty prison beds. Assemblyman Isaac Bryan emphasized the need to close more facilities to redirect funds towards education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Advocates like Amber-Rose Howard from Californians United for a Responsible Budget also advocate for following the analysts’ advice to close entire prisons as a sensible step towards significant cost savings.
It is suggested that these funds should be reallocated to counteract the regrettable cuts to education, housing, and other programs that would be more effective in addressing the underlying causes of criminalization, such as poverty, and supporting communities throughout California.
Other charitable organizations also concurred and advocated for taxpayer funds to be directed towards programs that promote the economy, environment, and healthcare services.
“When evaluating the budget, it is crucial to take into consideration the long-term impact of cuts to safety net programs on children and families,” stated End Child Poverty in California on May 16. “Why are we allocating resources to empty prison facilities?”
A Republican legislator expressed caution regarding the analysts’ proposal, stating that now is not the appropriate time to close prisons.
“While I typically agree with the Legislative Analyst’s Office, there are instances where I differ, and this is one issue where I do,” said Sen. Roger Niello to The Epoch Times. “I believe that by significantly reducing the number of operational prisons, we would have limited flexibility in addressing the recent surge in crime, and I support the governor’s more prudent approach to this matter.”
