I've been studying the language of the bill sponsored by State Rep. Tom Brinkman that would allow county sheriffs to inter criminals in jails of surrounding counties of other states. The language is pretty straight forward and does exactly as I have just described. I think that the legislation is a smart move as we look for alternative solutions to overcrowding in our county jails across the state.But here is what I don't get... I can't get my head around the idea that this bill was designed to help Hamilton county with its current problem. I don't see how this bill solves the immediate problem that Hamilton county faces. Hamilton county was renting jail space from Butler county and this bill doesn't make it clear that Hamilton county would be getting a better deal from our neighbors in northern Kentucky. So how does this bill help Hamilton county?
It could be used as a bargaining chip in dealing with Butler county. It could also be used as an option worth considering instead of raising taxes to build a larger facility in Hamilton county. The politics of a bill like this could lead us virtually anywhere...and usually does.
At any rate, what Rep. Brinkman proposes in the bill is sound policy that would provide our county sheriffs with other choices should they find themselves with crowded jails and an increasing guest list. Unless someone can point out something that I may have missed in my research, I fully support passage of the bill and would urge the Ohio House of Representatives to make the bill a priority.
