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 year-long transition intended to help them complete
parole requirements and live independently-an aftercare 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.