PRINCIPLES OF A SOUND STATE SCHOOL FINANCE SYSTEM

A recent report from the National Conference of State Legislatures defines a sound state school finance system by five principles: 1) Equity; 2) Efficiency; 3) Adequacy; 4) Accountability; and 5) Stability.

Most people respond to standards and incentives. Incentives are routinely used to encourage desirable behavior. Standards with incentives work in many organizations including business and universities. Because they expect later compensation in money and prestige, ambitious college students strive for academic performance. Students hope to be recruited by a major corporation or for admission to a top graduate or professional school.

The Speaker and Senate Pro Tempore created the Criminal Justice Reform Group to develop a balanced and comprehensive approach to the criminal justice crisis.

Components of Plan

The working group was asked to develop the specifics of a plan that could be supported by the House, Senate, and ultimately, the Governor. Certain parameters were established and specific components had to be addressed:

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Prison Population Trends

1. DOC Inmate Population Projections through FY'09

Crimes and Convictions

2. Index Crime Rate Trend

Reforms enacted in recent years have centered on: