The bill amends existing Arkansas law regarding the reporting requirements of the Board of Corrections, the Division of Correction, and the Division of Community Correction. It replaces the previous requirement for a biennial report submitted six months prior to the regular session with a new mandate for an annual report detailing the work of both divisions after each fiscal year. The report will include specific statistics and data from the Division of Correction, such as income from agricultural activities, a summary of expenditures, and progress on internal issues like inmate discipline and facility utilization. Additionally, the report from the Division of Community Correction will now include the number of individuals sentenced or transferred during the fiscal year, categorized by criminal offense and including demographic statistics.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the duties of the Director of the Division of Correction by removing the requirement for an annual report to the Board of Corrections, which previously included similar data to that now required in the combined annual report. It also emphasizes the need for cooperation between the Division of Correction and the Division of Community Correction, as well as the Legislative Council, to ensure comprehensive oversight and reporting on correctional options and personnel vacancies. The changes aim to streamline reporting processes and enhance the accountability of correctional divisions in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
HB 1593: 12-27-104(h), 12-27-107(d)
Act 358: 12-27-104(h), 12-27-107(d)