"We have contributed to Gov. Jim Hunt’s priority of Smart Start with our efforts to streamline this department," Correction Secretary Theodis Beck said. "The hardest part was closing prisons and relocating staff, but we managed to find jobs for all but a few employees, and we’re still trying to find spots for them."

Employees received a $125 bonus in their July paycheck, a 1 percent cost of living raise, and most employees, the ones who rate good and above on their performance, get an additional 2 percent raise.

Other legislation that was passed included the following:

•Seven small field units closing: Stanly Correctional Center on July 1, Goldsboro on Aug. 1, Blanch, Yadkin and Nash on Sept. 1, Stokes and Iredell on Oct. 1.

•Currituck Correctional Center converting from a medium to a minimum custody prison.

•Double celling is eliminated at Marion, Pasquotank and Central Prison.

•The Department has full authority in determining uniforms. In other words, no stripes.

•Construction money for three new, 998-bed prisons.

•The number of minimum security beds at 16 prisons will be reduced, eliminating some staff.

•Seven education positions abolished giving that function to community colleges. Money was allocated for DOC to contract with small community colleges for services.

•Five parole revocation hearing officers positions eliminated as well as reducing the number of parole commissioners from five to three, with staggered terms.

•Female IMPACT program reduced and integrated into the program at Morganton.

•The number of contract medical personnel reduced except at NCCIW.

•Proposed expansion money for the Division of Community Corrections was eliminated.

•Money for DART-Cherry expansions reduced.

•Correction Enterprises has a one-time reduction of $400,000.