According to sources such as the General Accounting Office and the National Conference of State Legislatures, all levels of government are entering a period of increasing costs that will not be covered by predicted revenues.  These fiscal challenges will likely persist through several decades.  Many jurisdictions will be faced with increasing taxes and/or reducing costs and changing policies to balance budgets.

Implications for Corrections

Corrections agencies will face tighter competition for appropriations.  Many agencies are likely to experience spending freezes and even reductioins, or increases in funding that will not be sufficient for increases in costs.  Agencies will be expected to implement cost-cutting measures, with many jurisdictions reviewing policies related to the costs and rates of confinement and detention of offenders.

Information Sources:

General Accounting Office

General Accounting Office (update)

National Conference of State Legislatures

National Governors' Association