KIRKSVILLE, MO --
A change in criminal sentencing is one way the state of Missouri is looking to save some cash.
    
All three branches of government are working together to revamp the way nonviolent criminals are sentenced.
    
If those offenders are sent to drug treatment or work release programs, it would free up prison beds for serious criminals. But, lawmakers say it's something that needs to be studied and carefully considered.

“We need to make sure that taxpayer money is being spent right, and to just make sure we're not going to put them in jail and then let them go and they'll be back again because the recidivism rate is quite high in Missouri, especially with nonviolent criminals,” said St. Rep. Zachary Wyatt.
    
It costs over $30,000 a year to house an inmate in the state penitentiary.
    
Wyatt says this idea is supported by both parties and will most likely be addressed in the 2012 legislative session.