DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of
the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of
the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
Smith HB No. 196
Abstract: Extends by six months eligibility to participate in the DPS&C work release program
for habitual offenders.
Present law provides for the establishment of a work release program within the Dept. of Public
Safety and Corrections.
Present law provides that any inmate who has been convicted of forcible rape, aggravated arson,
armed robbery, attempted murder, or attempted armed robbery, and persons sentenced as habitual
offenders shall be eligible to participate in a work release program during the last six months of
his term.
Proposed law retains present law except it allows habitual offenders to be eligible to participate
in a work release program during the last 12 months of their terms if the offender has obtained a
low-risk level designation determined by a validated risk assessment instrument approved by the
secretary of the DPS&C.
(Amends R.S. 15:1111(I))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Administration of Criminal
Justice to the original bill.
1. Added that for a habitual offender to be eligible for work release during the last 12
months of his term, the offender shall have obtained a low-risk level designation from
a validated risk assessment tool.