Louisiana Senate Bill SCR173

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/27/14
• Passed: 5/28/14
• Engrossed: 5/28/14

Caption

Requests strategies to provide offenders committed to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and confined in parish correctional facilities the necessary education, job skills and training, and needed behaviors, and to provide needed mental health care to all offenders committed to the department, to facilitate successful reentry upon release.

Impact

The enactment of SCR173 would enhance existing state laws regarding offender reentry by actively promoting educational and workforce development programs tailored to those in parish correctional facilities. This effort aims to provide necessary support to address the myriad challenges faced by ex-offenders, including mental health services. By focusing on reducing recidivism through successful reintegration, the resolution aligns with broader goals of public safety and crime prevention in Louisiana, demonstrating a legislative acknowledgment of the importance of rehabilitation.

Summary

SCR173 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges the Reentry Advisory Council to identify strategies for supporting offenders confined in parish correctional facilities. The resolution emphasizes the need to enhance education, job skills, and behavioral training to facilitate successful reintegration into society upon release. It notes that many offenders face barriers to reentry including lack of education and job skills, mental health issues, and the stigma associated with criminal records. The resolution reflects a commitment to reducing recidivism through comprehensive rehabilitative support.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR173 is generally positive, as it seeks to address significant challenges faced by offenders in reentering society. Supporters view the resolution as a proactive step towards reducing recidivism, improving public safety, and fostering community reintegration. However, the discussion around the implementation of these strategies may reveal underlying challenges in funding, resource allocation, and the effectiveness of existing rehabilitation programs. Overall, the resolution reflects a growing recognition of the complexities involved in offender reentry.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise from the practical application of SCR173’s directives, particularly regarding the resource allocation for expanded programs in parish facilities. Implementing the required strategies effectively requires commitment from both the Department of Public Safety and the Reentry Advisory Council. Furthermore, while the resolution promotes positive outcomes for offenders, it also raises questions about the responsibilities of society in supporting those individuals after their release, particularly in terms of employment opportunities and public perception.