The bill amends Kansas law concerning work release and educational release programs for inmates, specifically prohibiting courts from assigning defendants with prior sex offense convictions to these programs. It also bars the Secretary of Corrections from granting leave for work release to inmates with similar histories, aiming to enhance public safety by preventing individuals with sex offenses from participating in rehabilitation opportunities. Additionally, the bill repeals conflicting sections of existing law to ensure clarity and consistency regarding these restrictions.

Furthermore, the bill allows the Secretary of Corrections to place certain inmates directly into conservation camps, provided they meet specific criteria related to their offenses. Successful completion of the program mandates a report to the sentencing court, which will then assign six months of follow-up supervision. The bill also removes the previous thirty-day limit on work and educational releases, establishes conditions for these privileges, and includes provisions for community service in lieu of fines and electronic monitoring for certain offenders. Overall, the legislation seeks to balance rehabilitation opportunities for inmates while maintaining public safety.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-5267, 21-6604