GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Republican lawmakers are called for Criminal Justice Reform all around the state Monday.
“At the root of these initiatives is a simple goal: keeping our communities safe,” Representative Michael Schraa of Oshkosh said.
DA’s, judges, law enforcement joined forces to improve the criminal justice system by proposing reforms to make improvements from all angles.
At the Brown County Courthouse, Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke says it includes the front end of the criminal justice system.
“That why we want to add Assitant District Attorney’s or Public Defenders to ensure that people have access to a fair and speedy trial.”
The proposal would also pay the Assistant District Attorney and Public Defenders more.
Brown County District Attorney David Lasee says that is a key part.
“There is a shortage of prosecutors and this proposal will not only continue to support pay progression for prosecutors but also add some bodies.”
Lasee says the additions will allow prosecutors to work in a way that is more efficient and more effective to ensure that there is accountability to offenders and justice for victims.
The plan also calls for investing in the retention of correctional officers and promote a successful transition back into society for those who are released from the prison system.
“We also want to make sure that we have some resources on the back end that people are not released too soon and that they come into the community ready to be a contributing part of society,” said Steineke.
Representative John Macco says it is important because of proposals to make changes in the prison system.
“Cutting our state’s prison population in half, a goal of Governor Evers would mean putting violent criminals back into our community. Our criminal justice initiatives address the same concerns, while still keeping our Wisconsin families safe.”
That can be accomplished by expanded worker training, reentry programs, and health initiatives.
Lawmakers say at the center of the reform is keeping communities safe.
“As an elected official, it’s a top priority of mine to make sure our communities are safe,” said Representative John Nygren. “Whether it’s our state public defenders, district attorney’s r our countries, we’re committed to making sure they have the resources they need.”
Governor Evers is expected to release his budget address on Thursday, February 28 in Madison.
