This bill proposes updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes by amending sections 31-240 and 41-1604, and adding section 41-1604.21. The current law prohibits the director of the state department of corrections from using education services budget funds for programs aimed at prisoners sentenced to death, life imprisonment, or classified as maximum custody. Additionally, it exempts prisoners under eighteen and those with disabilities under twenty-two from this restriction.

If enacted, the bill would remove these prohibitions, allowing educational and vocational programs to be provided to all inmates, regardless of their sentencing status. Specifically, it would prevent the director from adopting any policies that exclude individuals sentenced to natural life or life without the possibility of parole from participating in these programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31-240, 41-1604, 41-1604.21, 31-229, 41-1822, 35-146, 35-147, 41-797