Unlock the Power of Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils: Enhance Your County's Justice System
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County governments play an important role role in administering the local public safety and justice system investing $107 billion annually and operating 91 percent of jails. In many counties, justice system related costs comprise the largest portion of the county budget. Ensuring that these dollars are put to the most efficient and effective use requires strong collaboration and coordination amongst the justice system stakeholders and community-based providers. Balancing public safety with innovative and cost-effective policies and programs can reduce over-reliance on jails and other aspects of the local justice system when alternative options may prove to be a better response.
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Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils (CJCC) Resource Hub
Counties advancing criminal justice often rely on a formalized body, like a Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), to guide decision-making. NACo's CJCC Resource Hub offers valuable information for counties looking to establish or strengthen their CJCCs.
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U.S. House reintroduces legislation to address the Medicaid Inmate Exclusion Policy with NACo support
Two bipartisan bills aimed at addressing the Medicaid Inmate Exclusion Policy (MIEP) were recently reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.
U.S. House of Representatives re-establishes Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus with NACo support
On May 7, members of the U.S. House of Representatives appointed new leadership to the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, reaffirming their commitment to addressing the nation’s mental health crisis through cross-party collaboration. This renewed focus is a welcome development for counties, which serve on the frontlines of the behavioral health system. Bipartisan initiatives like this help elevate mental health as a national priority, support counties in advancing meaningful policy change and strengthen partnerships across all levels of government.
New disaster recovery grants now open to support county economic development
The U.S. Economic Development Administration has launched the Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program, making $1.45 billion available to help communities recover from natural disasters and build long-term economic resilience. Counties affected by major disaster declarations in 2023 or 2024 are eligible to apply for funding to rebuild infrastructure, strengthen local economies and prepare for future disruptions. This program goes beyond immediate recovery, aiming to transform local economies and foster sustainable, long-term economic growth.