Defines a judicial agency for purposes of referring certain persons arrested for commission of a crime in housing or a temporary residence which is regulated by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. (8/1/15)
Impact
This bill will have significant implications for state laws regarding the housing of individuals associated with the criminal justice system. By mandating that facilities must be accredited and regulated, the legislation intends to enhance the quality of care and oversight provided to individuals in these temporary housing situations. This requirement for accreditation also promotes a higher standard of operation within these facilities, aligning them with accepted practices in the correctional field. Furthermore, restricting the location of such facilities from being within a thousand feet of schools or daycare centers addresses community safety concerns.
Summary
Senate Bill 73 aims to regulate facilities that provide housing or temporary residence to individuals arrested for the commission of a crime. The bill defines a 'judicial agency' to include various court officials but excludes sheriffs and sheriff departments, thus setting a specific framework for who can refer individuals to these facilities. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections is tasked with creating and enforcing regulations for these facilities, which underscores an effort to ensure the safety and compliance of those providing such housing. The facilities must undergo inspection and certification before they can accept referrals from judicial agencies.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB 73 appears generally supportive, given the unanimous House vote of 97-0 for final passage, indicating a consensus on the bill's goals to enhance the regulation and safety of housing options for those in the criminal justice system. However, discussions surrounding such bills often involve contention over issues of community safety, the efficacy of the judicial system, and the rights of individuals during pretrial processes. While the bill is designed to improve oversight, there may be further debate on the practical implications of its enforcement and its effectiveness in curbing recidivism.
Contention
Notable points of contention likely revolve around the definition and scope of 'judicial agency' and the implications of such classifications on local law enforcement and the criminal justice system. Critics may question whether the stringent regulations could adversely affect the availability of housing for individuals post-arrest, potentially complicating their reentry into society. Moreover, the exclusion of sheriffs from the referral process could be seen as limiting local authority in managing cases effectively, leading to discussions about community standards versus state-mandated regulations.
Provides relative to facilities providing housing or temporary residence to individuals referred by judicial agencies. (8/15/10) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Repeals certain accreditation requirements for facilities providing housing or temporary residence to individuals referred by judicial agencies. (8/1/14)
Directs the Dept. of Public Safety and Corrections to study the use of judicial referral agency residential facilities in work release programs and as an alternative to other incarceration programs
Provides that the Department of Public Safety and Corrections is the only proper party defendant involving the judicial review of department administrative decisions. (8/15/10)