Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HR150

Introduced
5/11/16  

Caption

Creates a task force to review provisions of law regarding work release programs and funding received from such programs

Impact

The bill intends to positively influence state laws by providing structured oversight to work release programs, which have been recognized as beneficial for the rehabilitation of offenders. By encouraging the effective management and allocation of funds, the resolution aims to ensure that these programs not only aid offenders in reintegration but also provide considerable savings to the overall Louisiana criminal justice system. The task force will gather insights that could lead to recommendations on how to optimally deploy various financial resources aimed at benefiting public safety and reducing recidivism rates.

Summary

House Resolution 150 (HR150) aims to create a task force that will review work release programs within Louisiana's criminal justice system. The task force is tasked with examining the legal provisions concerning work release, as well as funding associated with these programs. It seeks to assess how effectively the funds received from work release initiatives can be utilized to enhance the state’s criminal justice framework. With a focus on collaboration among various stakeholders, including legislative members and representatives from criminal justice organizations, the resolution underscores an effort to improve rehabilitation opportunities for offenders reentering society.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HR150 appears to be supportive, particularly amongst those who value rehabilitation over incarceration. Many stakeholders recognize the potential for work release programs to equip offenders with skills necessary for successful societal reentry, which could facilitate a decrease in Louisiana’s high incarceration rates. However, there may be contention regarding how effectively the recommendations from the task force can be transformed into concrete legislative action, as well as concerns around the allocation of funds and how they will be managed within the state’s broader criminal justice strategy.

Contention

While the creation of the task force is largely seen as a proactive step, there are concerns about the effectiveness of current work release programs and the capabilities of the task force to implement meaningful changes. Issues may arise regarding funding decisions, specifically how money is allocated among various components of the criminal justice system, such as indigent defense services and restitution to victims. Ensuring that the initiatives do not merely perpetuate the status quo but rather lead to substantial improvements in rehabilitation efforts and recidivism reduction will be essential for the bill's success.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HCR195

Requests DPS&C to study work release programs in the state

LA HR174

Creates a task force to study the educational programs in the prisons and jails of this state

LA HR270

Creates the Task Force on Juvenile Offender Policies

LA HCR29

Directs DPS&C to study effectiveness and practicality of dedicating some of work release proceeds to certain high schools

LA HR344

Creates a task force to study substance use trends and treatment among wards of the state

LA HB2162

Relating to the creation of the Reentry Policy Task Force to review corrections policies, programs, and procedures for inmates released into the community.

LA HB990

Amends provisions of the Inmate Rehabilitation and Workforce Development Act (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

LA HCR166

Creates the Transportation Funding Task Force to study transportation funding mechanisms

LA HB763

Pilot Work Release Program; extend repealer on authority of sheriff to establish for certain offenders in certain counties.

LA HB818

Amends provisions of law regarding the provision of indigent defense services

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