The bill amends the law regarding work-release programs in Arkansas, specifically allowing county sheriffs the option to house work-release program participants in county jails. It introduces a new section, 12-30-408, which outlines the conditions under which a sheriff can elect to house an inmate committed to the Department of Corrections at the county jail up to twelve months before their earliest potential release date. The bill stipulates that inmates convicted of certain felonies are ineligible for this housing option and requires the sheriff to obtain written consent from the inmate, notify relevant parties, and conduct a validated risk-needs assessment. Additionally, the sheriff must provide access to evidence-based programming and necessary healthcare for the inmate.

The bill also includes provisions for the Department of Corrections to reimburse counties for housing costs and mandates that the Department offer training on risk-needs assessments to sheriffs. Furthermore, it amends existing law regarding the execution of confinement judgments, specifying that, except as provided under the new section, sheriffs must deliver defendants to secured facilities as indicated in sentencing orders. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the management of work-release programs while ensuring that inmates receive appropriate support and resources during their confinement.

Statutes affected:
SB 641: 16-90-402(a)