This bill proposes to amend current statutes regarding the transition program for eligible inmates. Under the existing law, the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry (ADCRR) is required to establish a transition program that provides eligible inmates with transition services in the community for up to ninety days. The bill modifies this by allowing ADCRR to grant a one-time extension of up to an additional ninety days for inmates who meet specific criteria, including the need for further treatment and the use of validated assessment tools to evaluate recidivism risk.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for the contracted entities providing transition services, such as submitting updated individualized service plans to ADCRR. The amendments aim to enhance the effectiveness of the transition program by ensuring that inmates receive adequate support tailored to their criminogenic needs, thereby potentially reducing recidivism rates. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the transition process for inmates while maintaining the core structure of the existing program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31-281
House Engrossed Version: 31-281
Senate Engrossed Version: 31-281
Chaptered Version: 31-281