Support SB 1007
Dear Representative,
I live in your district and am writing in support of the continued implementation of House Bill 3508: the 2009 Safety and Savings Act. The law, which was passed during the 2009 session, delays the implementation of Measure 57 and provides increased earned time for certain prisoners, among other cost-saving reforms.
It is important to me that we keep Oregon safe during this time of financial crisis. I know you and your colleagues made difficult budget decisions during the last legislative session, but I commend your choices and the passage of the 2009 Safety and Savings Act. The law safeguarded the most critical of public safety services, including the Oregon Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Fund and Oregon State Police by reducing prison spending. This was a smart choice.
I am concerned that Oregon spends more on corrections than higher education and community colleges combined. We need to get smarter about our public safety strategy and spending.
I urge you to resist attempts by opponents of the 2009 Safety and Savings Act to repeal the earned-time element of the legislation. Earned-time is smart policy that provides incentive for rehabilitation, is a useful corrections management tool, saves money, and has been proven to reduce recidivism.
Mend it, don't end it. The Senate Judiciary Committee has a bill that addresses some concerns with the implementation of the earned-time eligibility increase. Senate Bill 1007 provides reasonable amendments that help strengthen the law without repealing it.
As one of your constituents, I want my voice heard in Salem. Support SB 1007.
Thank you.
Your name and address here
