Georgia House Bill HB136

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23

Caption

Penal institutions; commissioner of corrections to report certain information; require

Impact

This legislation is significant as it directly affects how correctional facilities in Georgia manage and report data related to immigration status among inmates. By mandating this information to be reported every 90 days, it implies a shift toward increased scrutiny and accountability within the state's penal institutions. Such data could provide insights into trends regarding immigration and crime, which may influence future legislative discussions and policies around immigration and corrections.

Summary

House Bill 136 aims to amend Title 42 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated by requiring the commissioner of corrections to report specific information regarding the immigration status, offenses, and countries of origin of individuals confined under the authority of the Department of Corrections. This measure seeks to ensure greater transparency regarding the demographic composition of the inmate population, specifically focusing on non-U.S. citizens. The information will be published on the department's official website and will include aggregate data and the percentage of inmates who are not U.S. citizens.

Contention

While the bill appears designed to promote transparency, it is likely to invite varying opinions regarding its implications for immigrant communities and the potential stigmatization of non-U.S. citizens within the criminal justice system. Critics may argue that such reporting could exacerbate racial and ethnic biases, while supporters might advocate for the bill as a necessary step to understand and address issues related to crime and immigration. Overall, the legislation's passage may lead to significant discussions about the intersection of immigration policy and the justice system in Georgia.