Colorado Senate Bill SB212

Colorado 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/25
• Refer: 3/31/25
• Report Pass: 4/1/25
• Refer: 4/1/25
• Engrossed: 4/3/25
• Refer: 4/3/25
• Report Pass: 4/8/25
• Refer: 4/8/25

Caption

Temporary Inmate Transfer

Impact

The bill appropriates $1,829,000 from the general fund to support the implementation of this temporary housing solution. It reflects the general assembly's intent to accommodate current needs in the state's correctional facilities while addressing public safety concerns. This legislation could serve as a model for future policies related to emergency housing needs within correctional systems. The necessity of such a bill indicates ongoing challenges in managing inmate populations effectively within available resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 212 addresses the temporary housing of inmates within the Centennial Correctional Facility-South C-Tower during the Access Controls Project affecting the Sterling Correctional Facility. The bill establishes that this temporary use is permissible only when there are no available beds in other facilities managed by the Department of Corrections. This aims to ensure that inmate populations are managed effectively while the Sterling facility undergoes significant infrastructure updates.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 212 seems to lean towards supporting measures that prioritize safety and adequacy in the housing of inmates during facility upgrades. Legislative discussions indicate a recognition that temporary solutions may provide necessary accommodations without permanently altering existing statutes governing correctional facility operations. However, there may be concerns among some stakeholders about the appropriateness and conditions of using temporary facilities.

Contention

While there appears to be broad support for the need to address temporary housing during construction projects, contention may arise regarding the adequacy of conditions in the Centennial facility as well as the fiscal impacts of the appropriated funds. Critics may argue about the long-term implications of relocating inmates and whether this could lead to additional challenges in managing inmates' welfare during transitional periods. Additionally, discussions about the overall efficacy of funding allocation and whether it addresses the root causes of overcrowding in facilities could surface.