Successfully Cutting Crime and Costs in Texas

Texas has, in many ways, become a model for the nation. The Legislature has reformed both the adult and juvenile justice systems to cut costs, provide more effective responses to criminal behavior, and protect public safety. There is more work to be done, however, to further reduce crime, empower and restore victims, and control corrections spending. This panel at the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s 2012 Policy Orientation discusses how Texas got tough and smart on crime and how the state can take the next steps in its criminal justice transformation. Panelists included former Harris County District Judge Caprice Cooper, Adam Gelb of the Pew Center on the States, and Texas Representatives Jerry Madden and Marisa Marquez. Marc Levin of Right On Crime served as moderator.