Batt Signs Prison Reform Bill Into Law Changes May Save $10 Million Annually

Idaho should save millions of dollars a year now by locking fewer people in prison, Gov. Phil Batt said Tuesday as he signed a package of prison reforms into law.

“I suspect we will make a little dent in the avalanche we are forced to face,” Batt said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we save 10 million bucks a year.”

The governor had touted his package of four bills and an administrative change as a first step toward slowing the flow of minor offenders into Idaho’s overcrowded prisons.

“Our first responsibility is public safety, but on the other hand, we don’t want people in prison for no particular purpose,” he said.

The governor’s proposals were the only ones to clear the Legislature this session.

At the same time, the Legislature sent Batt legislation creating 10 new crimes, five of them felonies, and two bills increasing penalties for existing crimes.

Batt’s package includes:

Allowing the state Commission for Pardons and Parole more flexibility in dealing with inmates who violate parole.

Raising the felony grand theft definition from thefts over $300 to thefts over $1,000. The difference between petty theft and grand theft can be up to 14 years in prison.

Setting the felony level for bad checks at $250.

Dropping felony penalties for repeat offenses of driving without a valid license.

Reducing the retained jurisdiction sentencing program from 180 to 120 days. This change didn’t need legislation, and went into effect in January. It will allow the state’s boot camp prison program to accommodate at least 300 more inmates a year.

Batt said Idaho should be “very cautious” in expanding the number of felonies on the books.

He already has signed six of the new crimes into law, including two felonies, and one of the enhanced penalty bills.

, DataTimes