We applaud Governor Malloy for his continued calls to close CJTS and want to show him there is strong support for him to ensure closure becomes a reality by July 1, 2018.

Governor Dannel Malloy (D-CT) has committed to closing the Connecticut Juvenile Training School by July 1, 2018. It is crucial that he keep this commitment and ensure that any final budget invests the savings from closing CJTS into community-based alternatives to incarceration for youth in their communities.

Here's why:

The Department of Children & Families’ Racial Justice Working Group found that among committed delinquent youth, African-American youth are more likely to be committed to CJTS -- the most punitive environment -- while white youth are sent to more treatment-oriented environments.

Connecticut spends $20 million to run CJTS every year. Imagine what that could provide in communities for youth and families. Kids are all going to eventually return to their communities -- why not provide them with all of the resources that they need to be successful and grow up to be healthy adults who can contribute to society?

Connecticut has the chance to do the right thing, serve youth better and save taxpayers money. Governor Malloy, please continue to show your courage by acting on this opportunity.