A Chance for Addict-Mothers

Some drug-abusing mothers convicted of nonviolent crimes will be eligible for a new program that lets them keep their children with them while they serve a sentence that includes treatment at a residential correctional facility. Children under the age of 7 will live at the facility as their mothers undergo drug abuse treatment and learn how to become better parents. This alternative sentence may be granted at a judge’s discretion.

Pregnant inmates with a history of substance abuse may also qualify. The need is great: 340 women had babies last year in the state prison system.

Dubbed the California Department of Corrections Family Foundations Program, it’s the idea of Robert B. Presley, secretary of the state Youth and Adult Correctional Agency. He authored the legislation when he was a state senator from Riverside County.

The first facility, built at a cost of $4.5 million from state prison bond proceeds, opened earlier this month in Los Angeles. There is room for 35 women and their children. Those admitted will get substance abuse treatment, take literacy classes, learn job skills and participate in counseling for themselves and their children. They will also be required to perform chores. Other facilities are scheduled to open next year in San Diego and Fresno.

After the women finish 12 months of drug treatment, they must participate in a yearlong transition intended to help them complete parole requirements and live independently--an after-care program that should increase their chance of success.

Drugs drive the incarceration rate in California. The number of women inmates has more than quintupled in the 15 years since crack cocaine became popular. This new sentencing program can make a difference for those whose futures appear dim.