Officials in Kentucky are warning that key treatment-based court programs could be eliminated if a proposed state budget moves forward without changes.
The judicial branch says funding outlined in House Bill 504 may significantly reduce resources for court operations over the next two fiscal years. According to the Administrative Office of the Courts, the plan could leave the system short by more than $14 million in 2027 and nearly $19 million in 2028.
If enacted, the reductions — estimated at 4% and 7% over the two years — could force layoffs, furloughs and cuts to services. Leaders say specialty courts, including drug, mental health and veterans treatment programs, are among those at risk.
These programs are designed to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior, such as substance use disorders and mental illness, by directing participants toward treatment and supervision instead of incarceration. Officials say the goal is to reduce repeat offenses while improving long-term outcomes for individuals and communities.
Debra Hembree Lambert, chief justice of the state Supreme Court, said the judicial system already operates with limited funding, with most expenses dedicated to staffing and maintaining court facilities.
“When cuts of this scale occur, they cannot be absorbed through minor adjustments,” she said, noting that non-mandated programs would likely be eliminated first.
Specialty courts have operated statewide for decades and are widely used. Drug Courts are available in all 120 counties, serving roughly 2,500 active participants. Mental health courts operate in several counties, while veterans treatment courts serve a smaller but growing population.
Judges and program leaders emphasize that these initiatives have demonstrated measurable benefits. Participants often achieve improved housing stability, employment, education milestones and stronger family relationships. The programs have also contributed to financial restitution payments and reduced reliance on incarceration.
Cost comparisons further highlight their value. Officials estimate that incarcerating an individual costs more than $16,000 annually, while participation in a specialty court program averages about $6,500 per year.
Supporters argue that beyond cost savings, these courts provide a pathway to rehabilitation and community stability. However, without additional funding, leaders say these programs may not continue.
Lawmakers are expected to continue negotiations on the budget in the coming days.