ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - A senior official says Cuomo administration plans to expand college classes for New York’s prison inmates will be privately funded and not financed by taxpayers.
The administration official, who declined to be identified publicly under the terms of a background briefing with reporters, says Monday it’s not part of the proposed state budget, noting lawmakers’ opposition to spending state money.
However, he says nonprofits and foundations are interested.
The administration announced plans in February to offer associate’s and bachelor’s degree education at 10 prisons.
The governor’s office says New York already spends $60,000 annually on each prisoner, and the $5,000 yearly education cost would sharply cut recidivism, save money and reduce crime.
Since 2007, the Department of Corrections has partnered with colleges including Cornell and Bard to offer privately funded degree programs at 22 prisons.
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