One New Idea: Two Percent to Prevent

Policy makers across America are taking a second look at their criminal justice budgets. With increased jail and police money sought in every new round of funding, any slim hope of diverting more money to schools, family programs, and drug treatment seems lost. But with Two Percent to Prevent, a slice of jail and police money automatically goes to fund pro-active programs for youth. In a rough estimate based on fiscal year 2001, two percent of Arkansas' criminal justice budget (not counting county and city funding) would yield over $5 million for youth programs and signal a much needed reversal in public policy. 

Another New Idea:  Asset Seizure/Forfeiture Reform. 

In Arkansas, forfeited assets of between $1.5 and $3 million per year could go a long way in helping fund pro-active programs for youth, like anger management or tutoring. For kids who end up with substance abuse problems, forfeited assets could help pay for better quality treatment programs, available on demand, affordable for any family, programs that would include good nutrition and top-notch counseling and other people-building services.  

A Good Approach: Tax Revenues Dedication