LANSING – The Michigan Association of Drug Court Professionals (MADCP) today named State Representative George Cushingberry Jr. (D-Detroit) "Legislator of the Year" for his dedication to helping drug addicts break their cycle of affliction.
"George Cushingberry has been a great advocate for Michigan drug courts," said Brian MacKenzie, MADCP president and 52nd District Court judge. "There is no legislator who deserved this award more than Representative Cushingberry."
After his acceptance speech, Cushingberry made it clear that he wants to reform current laws to keep non-violent drug offenders out of prison and in rehabilitation, an effort that will save Michigan taxpayers millions of dollars each year. He also wants the HHS to change its policies to allow Medicaid to be used to treat Drug Court participants.
"By throwing these folks with drug problems in jail, we aren't doing them or the taxpayers any favors," Cushingberry said. "Especially in straddle cell cases, where a repeat drug offender can be looking at anywhere from probation to 20 years in prison, the courts and these offenders need better options. A prisoner in Michigan costs the taxpayer an average of $32,000, money that could otherwise be used to help pay the mortgage or invest in a saving account. Throwing these people in jail doesn't resolve the problem; getting them the help they need will help solve the problem."