The bill establishes a temporary release program for certain prisoners in Lawrence County, aimed at facilitating rehabilitation before and after sentencing. It outlines specific conditions for release, such as the requirement for individuals to engage in gainful employment, and allows defendants to earn credit toward their sentences for days spent outside of jail. The legislation also includes penalties for prisoners who fail to return to custody and creates the Lawrence County Community Corrections and Court Services Fund, which will collect a percentage of earnings from work release programs. Additionally, it sets standards for pretrial release, enabling defendants charged with non-capital, bailable offenses to be released on personal recognizance or appearance bonds, while addressing bond forfeiture for failure to appear in court.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the Lawrence County Community Corrections and Court Services Commission, composed of appointed members such as judges and local council members, to oversee the program and fund administration. The commission is empowered to create and fund alternative sentencing and treatment programs, collect fees from defendants, and manage grants. Municipalities in Lawrence County are permitted to participate in these programs and contribute revenue to the fund. The bill includes new provisions regarding the commission's authority and responsibilities, while deleting any conflicting legal language from existing law. It is set to take effect on October 1, 2024, and will not interfere with the courts' power to punish for contempt or crimes.

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