Funding challenges are usually the main reason courts and jurisdictions hesitate to add intensive alcohol and location monitoring into their programs. However, daily monitoring fees are a fraction of the cost of incarceration and electronic monitoring can not only help improve program and client outcomes but also help jurisdictions save money over time.
Programs that are managed by service providers or those managed directly by an agency have budgetary advantages depending on a jurisdiction’s needs and resources. In addition, either program model can be fully or partially client paid.
Service Provider Programs
Programs managed by service providers experience the following cost-effective benefits:
- Monitoring services, including device installation, equipment maintenance, violation management and reporting, collections, and court reporting and testimony are completely handled by the service provider
- Administrative costs and time requirements for the jurisdiction, like the need for extra staffing and collections, are reduced
- Customized payment options available to suit your unique program, including client-paid, agency-paid, or a mix of both
Agency Programs
Programs that are run by agencies can manage alcohol monitoring costs by:
- Taking advantage of existing resources by directly managing clients’ monitoring and integrating it into current corrections programs
- Applying for grant funding (local, state, federal) that could be used to buy/rent equipment or cover daily monitoring fees
- Choosing from a variety of cooperative purchasing models and rental options to better align with available budget and resources
Client-Funded Programs
More than three-quarters of all SCRAM Systems clients pay some or all of the costs associated with their monitoring. Many jurisdictions opt for client-funded programs because:
- Clients are responsible for paying all or a portion of their electronic monitoring resulting in increased client accountability
- Financial responsibility of the client relieves the burden on tax-payers
- Client payment options, like sliding scales, deferred payment, or compliance reduction, can further customize your program
At a fraction of the cost of incarceration, electronic monitoring programs not only save jurisdictions money, but also help clients with their sobriety, recovery, and remain active with work, family, and in the community.
