Some of the changes Gov. Bill Ritter said he made in the budget first written by his predecessor, Gov. Bill Owens:
— Fund programs to reduce repeat offenses and cut prison costs, which Ritter said will save millions of dollars. Increase funding for mental health and substance abuse programs by $200,000. Spend an additional $1.5 million for 126 community corrections transition beds, including 60 for mentally ill patients.
— Spend $49 million for higher education governing boards and add $7.4 million, or 8.5 percent, for financial aid for college. Cap tuition increases for low- and middle-income students at 5 percent.
— Spend $21 million more for rate increases by Medicaid providers, along with an increase of $15 million to help with reimbursements to providers that serve the uninsured and underinsured.
— Provide funds to renovate 25 cottages, including the removal of lead paint and asbestos, at the Colorado State Veterans Center at Homelake following an outcry over the lack of proper facilities for military veterans.
