05 LC 21
8155
Senate
Resolution 127
By:
Senators Schaefer of the 50th, Thomas of the 54th, Cagle of the 49th, Pearson of
the 51st, Mullis of the 53rd and others
A
RESOLUTION
Commending
Georgia´s drug courts; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS,
the way courts once dealt with drug offenders was to impose fines, jail time,
and probation; but spurred by overcrowded jails and a recidivism rate of over 50
percent in the first two or three years after conviction, judicial pioneers have
sought new, more effective treatment; and
WHEREAS,
the result was drug treatment courts, which combine intensive judicial
supervision, mandatory drug testing, rewards for progress, immediate and
escalating sanctions for noncompliance, and long-term treatment and counseling
to help break the cycle of addiction; and
WHEREAS,
the program works, with a recidivism rate in jurisdictions with drug treatment
courts ranging from four to 28 percent as compared to a national recidivism
range in the neighborhood of 50 percent; and
WHEREAS,
in a team effort involving law enforcement, judges, district attorneys,
probation services, case managers, treatment providers, and defense attorneys,
emphasis is on fast intervention and a hands on program consisting of three
stages: stabilization, intensive treatment, and transition; and
WHEREAS,
the most lasting lesson participants learn is that each person is responsible
for his or her actions and choices, and ultimately only the individual can turn
his or her life around; and
WHEREAS,
the many unsung heros working in drug treatment courts have the satisfaction of
knowing they are making a tangible difference, not only in the fabric of
society, but also in the lives of real people who deserve a second
chance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body commend the drug treatment courts in this state and the many selfless people who labor on behalf of their fellow citizens.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body commend the drug treatment courts in this state and the many selfless people who labor on behalf of their fellow citizens.
BE
IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the public and the press.