Bill Summaries: S859 (2015-2016 Session)

Tracking:
  • Summary date: May 11 2016 - View summary

    Directs the Division of Adult Correction (Division) of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to establish and implement a pilot project to allow adult offenders and juveniles who are in good standing and are within two years from their projected release date to have access to computer tablets for purposes of taking continuing education classes, vocational classes, parenting classes, domestic violence/anger management classes, and other programs approved by the Division. Allows the Division to determine what databases will be accessible from the tablets. Provides that the purpose of the project is to prevent recidivism by allowing adult offenders and juveniles to build educational credentials, participate in prerelease planning and preparation activities, build social support in the outside community, and expose the adult offenders and juveniles to updated technology prior to release.

    Requires the Division to elect one or more state correctional institutions, youth development centers, and residential treatment facilities to implement the project.

    Directs the Division to use available funds during the 2016-17 fiscal year to conduct the pilot project. Requires the Division to report on the results of the pilot project to the 2019 Regular Session of the General Assembly, upon its reconvening.

    Appropriates $1,000 from the General Fund to DPS in nonrecurring funds to be utilized towards the implementation of the pilot project.