HB429 establishes a temporary release program in Lawrence County, Alabama, aimed at rehabilitating prisoners both before and after sentencing. The program allows for the release of individuals in custody for purposes such as employment or other rehabilitative activities, with the possibility of earning credit towards their sentence. The bill mandates that participants in work release programs contribute 25 percent of their gross earnings to the Lawrence County Community Corrections and Court Services Fund, which will be used for salaries, investigations, and rehabilitation programs. It also sets standards for pretrial release and bond forfeiture, and creates the Lawrence County Community Corrections and Court Services Commission to administer the fund and operate the program.

The commission, composed of judicial and law enforcement officials, as well as appointees from local city councils, is responsible for implementing the act, supervising administrative functions, and employing personnel with the same authority as deputy sheriffs. The commission can contract with individuals or nonprofits for an executive director, establish and fund alternative sentencing and treatment programs, and collect fees from defendants. The bill allows for financial and property assistance from the Lawrence County Commission and municipalities, and does not interfere with the courts' powers. The bill includes an insertion indicating its passage by the Senate on May 2, 2024, and is set to become effective on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 14-8-42
Enrolled: 14-8-42