Whereas, overcrowding in our county correctional facilities varies from county to county; and

Whereas, while counties are authorized to increase accommodations to house offenders, it is often too expensive for a single county to provide for expansions; and

Whereas, if 2 or more counties were authorized to form regional county correctional facilities, the entire State would benefit; and

Whereas, in order to help counties expedite the formation of regional county correctional facilities, it is necessary to begin planning by forming planning groups or authorities before the expiration of the 90-day period required; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 30-A MRSA §1658-A is enacted to read:

§1658-A.__Regional county facilities

The county commissioners of 2 or more counties may form groups to plan, finance, construct and operate regional correctional facilities.

Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this Act takes effect when approved.

SUMMARY

This bill authorizes groups of 2 or more counties to plan, finance, construct and operate regional correctional facilities.