Louisiana House Bill HCR14

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/20
• Refer: 3/12/20
• Report Pass: 5/7/20
• Engrossed: 5/18/20
• Refer: 5/19/20
• Report Pass: 5/26/20
• Passed: 6/1/20

Caption

Requests the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, the Louisiana Department of Health, and the Louisiana Department of Education to study the barriers that impede successful reintegration of offenders back into society

Impact

The bill aims to produce a comprehensive report highlighting the barriers that ex-offenders face when reintegrating into society, with the intention of shaping future policies that can alleviate these challenges. By urging state departments to compile and assess data related to these barriers, the resolution seeks to ensure that state resources are effectively allocated to supportive programs and services to aid in successful reentry. The findings from this initiative may lead to legislative changes or funding adjustments geared toward rehabilitation and reintegration activities across Louisiana.

Summary

HCR14, proposed by Representative Moore, is a legislative resolution urging the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, the Louisiana Department of Health, and the Louisiana Department of Education to collaborate in identifying barriers to successful reintegration of incarcerated individuals. This bill addresses critical societal issues, emphasizing the urgent need to enhance the support systems available for individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society. The focus is on various factors such as transportation, mental health treatment, employment opportunities, and housing stability, which are essential for reducing recidivism rates and improving public safety.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR14 appears to be generally positive among those who advocate for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation. Supporters of the resolution view it as a proactive approach to solving the high rates of recidivism, which ultimately burdens the state's criminal justice system and taxpayers. There is recognition that successful reintegration is a public safety issue and a civic duty to assist those who have been incarcerated in becoming productive members of society. However, the implementation of the proposed solutions may not be without contention, as funding priorities and resource allocation will be critical factors in its success.

Contention

While there is widespread agreement on the need for improved reintegration strategies, some members of the legislature might express concerns about the perceived costs associated with implementing extensive rehabilitation programs. Additionally, debates may arise around how to balance public safety with providing support for ex-offenders, particularly regarding the appropriate types of programs and interventions that should be prioritized. The resolution may grapple with complexities related to coordinating efforts among various state departments and ensuring comprehensive data collection that reflects the diverse needs of the incarcerated population.