Education and drug treatment programs help reduce inmate recidivism and improve safety at correctional facilities by reducing inmate idleness, which is a contributing factor to violence and institutional disturbances.
Due to state revenue shortfalls, funding for education and rehabilitative programs has been reduced in recent years, and the department has eliminated many of its education, vocational, and substance abuse programs. As a result, many inmates identified as needing substance abuse programs are released without receiving treatment. Over half of inmates who did participate in programs did not complete them; one major reason for this was the termination of programs.
The Legislature has funded a 100-hour, transition life skills course for all released inmates, which can help reduce recidivism. However, as currently provided through video rather than by classroom instruction, the course may not achieve the same success in reducing crime.

No Title
Report 00-23
Department of Corrections Should Maximize Use of Best Practices in Inmate Rehabilitation Efforts
Report 09-44 December 2009
Alternative Placements for the Correctional Education Program Would Be More Costly
Report 08-16 March 2008
Higher Priority Should Be Given to Transition Services to Reduce Inmate Recidivism
Report 07-17 February 2007

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.