1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

California must fully fund the Rehabilitative Investment Grants for Healing and Transformation (the RIGHT grant) in this year's budget. This modest investment in nonprofit organizations providing crucial rehabilitation programs inside prisons yields significant long-term benefits. The latest data shows participation in these programs reduces recidivism rates by nearly half. Rather than returning to costly incarceration and being torn from families and communities, those who embrace rehabilitation are equipped to become productive members of society. While there are many priorities competing for limited funds, the RIGHT grant represents a wise investment that will pay dividends through lower incarceration costs and increased public safety as fewer crimes are committed. Quality rehabilitation programs foster true transformation, breaking cycles of violence and criminal behavior. They create an ecosystem of personal growth that continues after release, ultimately strengthening our communities. Fully funding the RIGHT grant aligns with the goals of transforming public safety and transitioning away from an over-reliance on incarceration. It reflects our values as a society - investing in human potential rather than simply warehousing individuals. The modest funding required is a small price for increased safety, lower taxpayer burden, and more successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals. This budget decision can put California on a path towards a more effective and humane criminal justice system.