This bill proposes updates to section 31-281 of the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding the transition program for eligible inmates. Currently, the program provides transition services for up to ninety days, but the bill modifies this by changing the phrase "up to" to "not more than," clarifying the maximum duration of services. Additionally, it introduces a new provision allowing for a one-time extension of up to an additional ninety days for inmates who require further treatment or intervention, contingent upon specific criteria being met.

The new criteria for extending transition services include the department's determination of the inmate's need for additional support, the use of an empirically validated risk assessment tool by the contracted service provider, and the submission of an updated individualized service plan to the department. These changes aim to enhance the effectiveness of the transition program by ensuring that inmates receive adequate support tailored to their individual needs, thereby potentially reducing recidivism rates.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31-281