Los Angeles Times (May 16): State to Detail Reform of CYA

[Jack Rabbit]

From the Los Angeles Times
Dated Monday May 16

State to Detail Reform of CYA
Intensive therapy and education would replace a punitive culture in California's youth penal system under the terms of a lawsuit settlement.
By Jenifer Warren, Times Staff Writer

Sacramento — The Schwarzenegger administration is poised to profoundly transform how California treats its most troubled young lawbreakers, replacing a prison culture of punishment and control with one anchored in group therapy, self-discipline and preparation for life outside.

Under the new approach, outlined in court documents to be filed today, inmates in the California Youth Authority — now idle or locked down much of the time — would follow an intensive schedule of counseling, education and vocational training designed to consume nearly every waking hour.

Living units, now marked by violence and crowded with up to 75 youths, would house half that number. Every offender would be teamed with a counselor who would follow the youth's progress — and, when needed, impose sanctions or rewards — throughout the sentence.

Officials could not predict how soon the state would transition to the therapeutic approach, though it will not be this year. A more detailed blueprint from the state is due to be filed in November in Alameda County Superior Court, where it must be approved by Judge Ronald Sabrow before any changes are made. Also unclear was how much the changes would cost.

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[nothingshocksmeanymore]

1. This sounds more like Maria not Arnold

and if it were sincere, I would applaud it. WE shall see.