Restorative justice was identified as a major trend in the state courts (Cavanagh, T.,1998). Conducted by the Balanced and Restorative Justice Project from January through March 1999, restorative justice principles are now stated in statute or code in eighteen states, policy in twenty – one states, mission statements in thirty – two states, program plans in thirty – six states,. In thirty –three states, restorative justice principles are located in multiple points. Only 12% or six states did not reference restorative justice principles at any point. As of 1999, restorative justice programs were working independently and in combination with the retributive justice system in 88% of the United States.

In Wisconsin, located in a January, 2004 audit by the Office of Justice Administration, thirteen counties were identified as having restorative justice programs. Of those counties, their funding sources ranged from federal grants, state and county funds and private donations. Due to decreases in federal, state and county budgets many restorative justice programs will have to search for alternative funding sources. The Honorable Marianne E. Becker Fund is prepared to identify and assist those restorative justice programs marked with integrity and that maintain the principles of restorative justice. With the combination of your financial gift, our fundraising efforts and grant awards we will continue to support programs during a time of decreasing government funding.

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