New Task Force in Tennessee Is Exciting News to “Outcasts” Film Crew
Stephen Newton interviews Gov. Bill Haslam during the filming of “Outcasts.”
On August 14, 2014, Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam announced the creation of a 27-member Governor’s Task Force on Sentencing and Recidivism as part of his administration’s effort to cut crime and improve public safety.
In press releases and public statements, the governor has stated he wants the task force to determine what actions should be taken to reduce recidivism in Tennessee and if criminal justice reforms are needed.
All this is “music” to the ears of the “Outcasts” creative team and staff. And we’re hoping our documentary, which premiered April 2014, may have played some role in bringing said issues to light – particularly since Gov. Haslam was featured in the film.
But even if that isn’t the case, we’re excited and extremely encouraged by the governor’s actions and believe it’s an indication his administration understands the alarming issues at stake.
We congratulate the 27 individuals on the task force and appreciate their willingness to serve. To express our gratitude, we’ve communicated with the entire group, mailing each member a copy of the “Outcasts” DVD. After all, we spent two years investigating the issues and talked with dozens of people. It’s our hope that the task force views the film and comes away with a better understanding of the issues and what actions should occur.
The task force is expected to submit recommendations for change to the Governor’s Public Safety Subcabinet by June 2015. Following that, the governor’s administration will examine the conclusions and determine whether the state can put the suggested changes into practice or draft them into law.
Read more about Governor Haslam’s announcement.