Peach Tree Times

The Department of Corrections Facilities Senate Study Committee, chaired by Majority Whip Senator Randy Robertson, has unanimously adopted its final report. This decision was made during the committee's concluding meeting on December 13, 2024. The committee was established through Senate Resolution 570 and spent nearly four months examining strategies to improve the welfare of employees and those in custody within the Department of Corrections.

Senator Robertson expressed his appreciation for the committee's work: “This committee has heard an abundance of valuable testimony since August. Our committee’s recommendations aim to enhance safety, promote fairness and support the Department of Corrections officers and the inmates they care for around the clock. I am grateful to each committee member for their dedication to this important issue and to the Lieutenant Governor for his unwavering support of our work.”

He further acknowledged the contributions from Georgia taxpayers: “I also want to thank the Georgia taxpayers who came to the Capitol to share their experiences and suggestions. These citizens fund our budget and trust us to spend their tax dollars on worthwhile projects that provide quality care to those in our custody. As a former law enforcement officer, the welfare of our corrections officers and the inmates they protect will always be of utmost importance to me.”

The report provides findings and recommendations aimed at improving safety for both employees and inmates in Georgia's correctional facilities. Key proposals include increasing mental health services for incarcerated individuals and staff, investing in recruitment and retention of correctional officers, reviewing contract renewals for potential cost issues, conducting a pay study for department employees, converting facilities to single-person cells, advocating for technology use against contraband communications, expanding capacity through public-private partnerships, prioritizing facility hardening, and ensuring consistent policies across all facilities.

The full report is accessible on the Georgia General Assembly website.

Senator Randy Robertson represents Senate District 29 which includes Harris, Meriwether, Troup Counties, and part of Muscogee County. He can be contacted at 404.656.0045 or via email at randy.robertson@senate.ga.gov.