HARTFORD – The following is a statement from David McGuire, executive director of the ACLU of Connecticut, in response to today’s announcement that legislators will introduce proposals to scale back the state’s earned risk reduction credit program:
“Peddling in fear to try to undermine effective earned risk reduction credit policies reflects a failed 1980s-era approach to justice. Instead of looking backward, Connecticut should stick with the 21st-century approach to justice that has decreased the state’s prison population while reducing crime. Since adopting the earned risk reduction credit program, Connecticut has become safer while cutting its prison population. Studies have shown that earned risk reduction credit programs reduce recidivism rates, save states money, and improve conditions for prisoners and staff alike. We encourage the legislature to stick with the facts when it comes to justice reform, not fear.”
For research regarding earned risk reduction credit programs: https://www.prisonfellowship.org/resources/advocacy/release/earned-time-credit
