Peach Tree Times

Governor Brian P. Kemp, in collaboration with the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC), has unveiled significant budget recommendations for the state's prison system. These recommendations are based on a comprehensive assessment conducted by Guidehouse, Inc., along with The Moss Group and Carter, Goble Lee (CGL). The proposed investment exceeds $372 million as part of the overall $600 million earmarked across the Amended Fiscal Year 2025 and Fiscal Year 2026 budgets.

Governor Kemp emphasized public safety as a priority for state government, stating: "Public safety is the number one priority of state government, and that is why we have taken a comprehensive and deliberate approach to strengthening law enforcement and improving our corrections system." He expressed gratitude to Guidehouse for their work over several months and to the Department of Corrections personnel for their partnership throughout the process.

The initiative began in June 2024 when Governor Kemp tasked the Department of Corrections and Guidehouse with identifying strengths and opportunities within the prison system. This effort involved visits to various state prison facilities and interviews with staff, inmates, and stakeholders.

GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver presented these recommendations at a Joint Meeting of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. He acknowledged Governor Kemp's support: "On behalf of the entire GDC team, I want to express our gratitude to Governor Kemp...for their collective commitment."

Key issues addressed include employment vacancies among security staff and infrastructure alignment with offender needs. Senate Appropriations Chairman Sen. Blake Tillery highlighted concerns about cell signals in prisons: “Prisons are for punishment and rehabilitation- not TikTok.”

House Appropriations Chairman Matt Hatchett noted stakeholder feedback in shaping these recommendations: “These exceptional recommendations address pressing issues by dedicating funding needed to ensure safety.”

Majority Whip Sen. Randy Robertson underscored his personal connection as a former law enforcement officer: “I am thankful for Governor Kemp’s recommendations...and this honest assessment.”

Budgetary measures include salary increases for correctional officers, behavioral health counselors, educators, chaplains, food service workers, maintenance staff, recruitment initiatives, emergency repairs, facility maintenance improvements, new prison planning funds, private prison bed additions, and modular unit construction.

The GDC will continue collaborating with Guidehouse during ongoing assessments.

The Georgia Department of Corrections supervises approximately 47,000 inmates with around 9,000 employees. More information is available at gdc.georgia.gov.

Guidehouse offers consulting services globally across public sector and commercial markets.