Alabama House Bill HB9

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/20/23
• Report Pass: 3/22/23

Caption

Relating to correctional incentive time; to amend Section 14-9-41, as last amended by Act 2022-322, 2022 Regular Session, Code of Alabama 1975, to reduce the amount of correctional incentive time a prisoner receives; to require a prisoner to remain in a certain classification for a longer period of time before moving up to a higher classification; to provide for additional circumstances in which a prisoner may be required to forfeit his or her correctional incentive time; and to require the Department of Corrections to provide annual reports to the Legislature, the Governor, and the Attorney General regarding correctional incentive time.

Impact

The implications of HB9 are significant for the state's penal system. By limiting the accrual of correctional incentive time, the bill seeks to encourage more stringent inmate behavior standards. In addition, the amendment entails introducing new circumstances under which inmates may be required to forfeit their accrued time, thus potentially increasing their time served and impacting recidivism rates and rehabilitation efforts. The Department of Corrections is also mandated to submit annual reports detailing the implementation of these changes and their effects on the prison population.

Summary

House Bill 9, known as the Deputy Brad Johnson Act, focuses on amending existing laws related to correctional incentive time awarded to prisoners in Alabama. The bill aims to reduce the amount of correctional incentive time that inmates can earn, which is a reduction of sentence time based on good behavior. It also establishes stricter requirements for prisoners regarding their classifications, requiring them to maintain a specific classification for longer periods before moving up to a higher classification.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HB9. Proponents argue that increasing the requirements for earning correctional incentive time will improve discipline among inmates and reduce instances of misconduct. However, critics raise concerns that these changes could hinder rehabilitation efforts by extending the duration of incarceration for inmates who might otherwise qualify for early release based on their good behavior. The emphasis on stricter classification and time forfeiture may disproportionately impact lower-level offenders who may struggle to navigate the increased demands placed on them.