Despite closures and payroll cuts, California prison costs remain millions over budget - Local News Matters

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation faces an impending $850 million budget shortfall over three years, as highlighted in a report by the Legislative Analyst’s Office. Despite recent efforts to cut costs, including closing four prisons and reducing payroll expenses, the department's financial woes persist. Democratic Sen. Scott Wiener criticized the department for overspending during a time when the state grapples with a $12 billion general fund deficit. He pointed out that these funds could have been redirected to support essential services for the most underserved communities.

Last year, the corrections department ran out of funds to pay its bills and received a one-time $357 million allocation to cover critical costs. Wiener warned that without new dedicated funding, budget deficits will likely continue, increasing pressure on the general fund. Governor Gavin Newsom's administration estimates that closing prisons saves roughly $150 million annually, indicating that further closures may be necessary to control spending. The next budget proposal from Newsom is expected in January, amid ongoing discussions about the future of corrections spending in California.