Representative Carlin talks corrections agenda for 2022 legislative session

The Kansas legislative corrections and juvenile justice oversight committee is looking to propose several bills for the 2022 session.

66th District Representative Sydney Carlin, who is on the committee, says they are working to improve a compassionate bill policy.

Carlin says the committee is also working to improve outcomes for those being released from prison. This will allow them to have more chances to step into a normal life after incarceration. They are also working on improvements for inside of the state’s prisons as well.

Carlin says they want to make sure people are not being locked up for minor drug offenses. She brought up the legalization of marijuana in surrounding states.

Carlin says the enforcement by the Kansas Highway Patrol uses quite a bit of manpower and hours. She also says legalizing marijuana can bring in extra tax dollars and be used as a source of income for the state.

Carlin says the legalization could also help with lowering incarceration numbers in the state significantly.

The committee is also looking towards permanent raises for community corrections staff in the state.  Governor Laura Kelly authorized a pay increase earlier this year with the current corrections budget and some SPARK funds.

Carlin says this current raise will be effect till July and will need legislative approval to be permanent.