Legislative subcommittee hears from ADC Director Larry Norris

Legislators got a first hand report today of incidents that have been widely discussed regarding the Arkansas Department of Correction. Director Larry Norris gave a forthright account of three of the biggest incidents, and legisators will likely continue to take up this matter. I anticipate a movement to refer this to either the Interim Committee on State Agencies or the Joint Performance Review Committee, both of which have subpoena power, to hear different perspectives on the failures that have allowed these incidents to take place. It's possible that the issue could remain in this Legislative Council subcommittee if attendance of all interested parties can be procured. We're also in contact with NCSL about potential organizations that exist for the sole purpose of providing analysis and guidance as a far as our policies go versus the policies of other states. For example, is it feasible to implement biometrics such as fingerprinting or a retinal scan to account for everyone that enters and leaves the premises?

The best point of the day likely came from Sen. Jim Luker, who said that we also need to look introspectively and determine whether or not the legislature has provided the department with the resources necessary to carry out its functions. I'm going to get on the road back to Texarkana, so here's a further report on the committee meeting from the Arkansas Times.