S JUD SCR ORG9 2-27
SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 68
(By Senators Kessler, Oliverio, Foster,
Hunter, Stollings, Wells, Barnes, Caruth and McKenzie)
[Originating in the Committee on the Judiciary;
reported February 28, 2008.]
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study
feasibility of utilizing Alcohol and Drug Mental Health Courts
to assess and implement alternative sentencing and treatment
options for misdemeanors and nonviolent offenses involving
drugs or alcohol.
Whereas, West Virginia has seen a large increase in
incarceration rates in its jails and prisons; and
Whereas, It is estimated that more than one-half of these
incarcerations are due directly or indirectly to the abuse of
alcohol and drugs; and
Whereas, West Virginia has made great progress with
alternative sentencing and community corrections programs; and
Whereas, Many states are now utilizing Alcohol and Drug Mental
Health Courts to assess and implement alternative sentencing and
treatment options for misdemeanors and nonviolent offenses
involving drugs or alcohol; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby
requested to study the feasibility of utilizing such specialty courts in West Virginia to assess and implement alternative
sentencing and treatment options for misdemeanor and nonviolent
offenses involving drugs or alcohol; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and
Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2009, on
its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts
of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations;
and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this
study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be
paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on
Government and Finance.