H.191 is a bill introduced to prohibit the use of private and for-profit correctional facilities in Vermont. The bill restricts the Commissioner of Corrections' authority to assign and transfer individuals in custody to only those facilities operated by public or nonprofit entities, including those under interstate or federal compacts. It also mandates the Department of Corrections to create a plan to repatriate individuals currently housed out of state back to Vermont. The bill outlines findings that highlight the negative impacts of out-of-state incarceration, such as increased costs, reduced family visitation, and limited access to legal counsel.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of prohibitions against housing individuals in out-of-state facilities unless they meet the specified criteria, and a timeline for the Commissioner to terminate existing contracts with private entities. The bill also requires the Department of Corrections to submit a report detailing an implementation plan by November 15, 2025, aimed at expanding in-state capacity and facilitating the transfer of individuals back to Vermont. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 28-102