"We worked hard to get the full funding for Forrest City in this bill," Rep. Berry stated.  "This money will provide full funding for this new facility, and will give St. Francis County a needed economic boost."  Berry noted that the legislation containing the funding must also pass the Senate and be signed by the President before the funding amount is finalized.  

Rep. Berry criticized the inadequate funding levels for other Justice Department programs included in the legislation.  Funding for the Community Oriented Police Services (COPS), which provides needed grants to local police forces for additional policemen, and the Legal Services Corporation, which provides legal assistance to low income individuals, both received severe cuts.  Berry stated, "I am very disappointed by the unacceptable cuts in these important programs.  We will be working hard to provide adequate funds to protect our nation's communities as this process moves forward."

The $95.8 million requested by Rep. Berry will provide for the construction of a new 1152 bed medium security unit.  Initial studies for the facility have been completed for the new facility, and expansion of the correctional facility at Forrest City will provide needed additional beds.