Video: Alabama Looking to Revamp Criminal Justice System

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MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WCBI) — Taking a page from Mississippi, Alabama leaders form a committee to help reform the state’s criminal justice system. Members of the legislature will join nearly 30 policymakers for the Justice Reinvestment Initiative.

The goal is to reduce prison overcrowding and controlling costs. Alabama prisons operate at approximately 190% capacity.

Like other states, corrections takes up a large portion of the state’s budget. Probation and parole supervision, drug treatment programs, and ways to reduce recidivism will also be explored.

A plan should be in place by January for the legislature to vote on during the next session.