FAQ
What are the key goals and objectives of Governor Newsom’s transformation of San Quentin State Prison into the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center?
The transformation of San Quentin State Prison into the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center focuses on rehabilitation and education programs to strengthen public safety. Key objectives include creating a model for an effective justice system, addressing trauma, repairing harm, and fostering safer communities through evidence-based initiatives. This shift moves the focus from punishment to rehabilitation, guided by a multidisciplinary advisory council of experts.
Who are the members of the San Quentin Transformation Advisory Council, and what roles do they play in the transformation process?
The San Quentin Transformation Advisory Council consists of 21 members from diverse backgrounds. Notable members include:
- Doug Bond, CEO of Amity Foundation, Co-Chair
- Dr. Brie Williams, Co-Chair
- Ronald Broomfield, San Quentin Warden, Co-Chair
- Darrell Steinberg, Sacramento Mayor, Co-Chair and Governor’s lead advisor
- Scott Budnick, Founder, Anti-Recidivism Coalition
- Neil Flood, State Vice President, California Correctional Peace Officers Association
- Tinisch Hollins, Executive Director, Californians for Safety and Justice
- Katie James, Chief, CDCR’s Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services
- Terah Lawyer-Harper, Executive Director, Creating Restorative Opportunities and Programs
- Kenyatta Leal, Executive Director, Next Chapter Project
- Jody Lewen, President, Mount Tamalpais College
- Sam Lewis, Executive Director, Anti-Recidivism Coalition
- Billie Mizell, Founder, Acting with Compassion and Truth
- Jonathan Moscone, Executive Director, California Arts Council
- Dr. Mimi Silbert, President and CEO, Delancey Street
- U.S. Marine Corps Major General James Michael Myatt (ret.)
- Dr. Alison Pachynski, Chief Medical Executive, San Quentin State Prison
- Chris Redlitz, Executive Director, The Last Mile
- Michael Romano, Director and Founder, Three Strikes Project at Stanford University
- Jesse Vasquez, Executive Director, Pollen Initiative
These members provide recommendations and plans for programmatic, cultural, and physical changes centered on rehabilitation.
What specific physical and programmatic changes are being implemented as part of the transformation of San Quentin?
The transformation includes a $239 million renovation to create a Scandinavian-inspired center focused on restorative justice. Physical updates involve a new facility design, while programmatic changes emphasize education, vocational training, and holistic approaches to reentry, aiming to reduce recidivism.
How will the transformation of San Quentin impact the security level and the number of prisoners housed at the facility?
San Quentin’s security level will shift from maximum to medium. While exact prisoner numbers aren’t specified, the focus on rehabilitation and new facilities suggests a potential reduction in population as part of broader reform efforts.