The bill amends the Code of West Virginia, specifically section 15A-4-21, to enhance the management of corrections by establishing roles for a Director of Employment and a Director of Housing specifically for released inmates. These directors will collaborate with various governmental and private entities to create and negotiate agreements that facilitate employment and housing opportunities for individuals who have been released from incarceration. The Director of Employment will focus on investigating job opportunities and assisting released inmates in securing employment, while the Director of Housing will work with the Bureau of Community Corrections and the Parole Board to address housing-related delays in the release process.

Additionally, the bill removes existing language that authorized short-term loans to released inmates, indicating a shift in focus towards employment and housing support rather than financial assistance. This legislative change aims to improve the reintegration process for released inmates by providing them with the necessary resources to secure stable employment and housing, ultimately reducing recidivism and promoting successful community reintegration. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after its passage, on July 10, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15A-4-21
Engrossed Version: 15A-4-21
Enrolled Version: 15A-4-21