BUDGET: Invest in compassion

I read with interest the recent article regarding how Governor Little is wanting to spend a portion of the excess in the state budget.

As a former law enforcement officer, I understand wanting to have adequate facilities for incarceration. However, I believe that providing facilities for the mentally ill folks is equally important, since about 40% of the incarcerated are there due to mental conditions.

There is a local situation that defines our failing in this area. A teenage girl who has been diagnosed with severe mental problems is going to have to be treated at a facility out of state, since there is a limit to the number of days she can stay at the Nampa facility, and there is no room at longer term places.

Surely, as compassionate people, we can do better than this. Please let our leaders know about this critical need in our state.

BARB CRUMPACKER

Coeur d’Alene