Senate Bill No. 373, introduced by Senator Cloud, amends existing laws regarding the confinement of state inmates in parish jails and establishes criteria for additional per diem funding. The bill modifies R.S. 15:824(B)(1)(a) to include provisions for the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to pay parish sheriffs a daily sum for inmates housed in parish jails under specific circumstances. Notably, any future increases in this daily sum after January 1, 2026, will depend on compliance with basic jail guidelines, safety and sanitation laws, and criteria set by the department. The bill also mandates the development of rules to establish eligibility for additional funding, focusing on mitigating liability risks, ensuring safe conditions, and upgrading technology infrastructure.

Additionally, the bill creates the "Transitional Workforce and Vocational Training Pilot Program" within the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, which aims to provide vocational training to inmates in high-demand skilled trades. This program is to be implemented by January 1, 2027, and will address workforce gaps while enhancing reentry outcomes for inmates. The secretary of the department will oversee the program's implementation and report on its success by January 1, 2029, including recommendations for its future. The provisions of the bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB373 Original: 15:824(B)(1)