This bill amends Section 42-56-20.2 of the General Laws to include provisions regarding community confinement. It specifies that certain individuals who have been adjudged guilty of a crime, sentenced to imprisonment, or detained while awaiting trial may be subject to community confinement. However, there are exceptions for individuals who cannot demonstrate a permanent place of residence or regular employment or enrollment in an educational or vocational training program within the state. Additionally, individuals who have been convicted of a violent felony within the past five years or certain other offenses involving force or violence may also be exempt from community confinement.

The bill establishes a community confinement program within the Department of Corrections. The program will serve a certain number of adjudged persons, sentenced persons, and detainees, as determined by the director of the department. The director will provide monthly reports to the presiding justice of the superior court and the family court regarding the number of individuals participating in the community confinement program. The bill also outlines the procedures for applying for community confinement and the conditions under which individuals may be permitted to leave their eligible residence for employment or education/training purposes. It also includes provisions for the administration and supervision of individuals in community confinement, including intense surveillance and searches when necessary. The bill prohibits the use of electronic surveillance devices unless authorized by the director of corrections. It clarifies that college or university housing facilities are not eligible residences for community confinement.

Statutes affected:
625: 42-56-20.2