Arizona 2023 Regular Session

Arizona Senate Bill SB1091

Introduced
1/23/23  
Report Pass
2/9/23  
Report Pass
2/13/23  
Engrossed
2/21/23  
Report Pass
3/13/23  
Report Pass
3/20/23  
Enrolled
4/12/23  

Caption

Prisoners; transition services; noncontracted entities

Impact

The passage of SB1091 is expected to have a notable impact on state laws governing inmate transitions. By broadening the scope of available services and permitting inmates to select noncontracted service providers, it aims to enhance the effectiveness of reintegration efforts. This statewide initiative could lead to lower recidivism rates by providing tailored support for inmates based on their individual needs. The requirement for annual evaluations of the program's effectiveness underscores the importance of data-driven approaches to criminal justice reform in Arizona.

Summary

Senate Bill 1091 is a legislative act aimed at improving the transition services available to inmates in Arizona as they reenter society. It amends existing statutes to allow for the establishment of a transition program that provides eligible inmates with transition services in the community for up to ninety days. The program encourages partnerships with both contracted and noncontracted behavioral health service providers, expanding access to essential support services such as psychoeducational counseling, job placement, and substance abuse treatment.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB1091 seems to reflect a supportive outlook on its intentions to facilitate smoother transitions for released inmates. Proponents argue that enhancing community resources is vital for reducing reoffending rates and aiding successful reintegration into society. However, there may be reservations from some quarters regarding the adequacy of the proposed criteria for eligibility, and concerns about how the expansion of services may impact funding and resource allocation within the corrections system.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB1091 involves the eligibility criteria for inmates seeking transition services. While the bill specifies disqualifications that include convictions for serious violent offenses, there may be debates about the fairness of excluding individuals with certain past crimes from accessing necessary support. Additionally, the requirement that victims be notified and have an opportunity to be heard before an inmate's early release could evoke discussions on the balance between victim rights and rehabilitative opportunities for offenders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ HB2047

Prisoners; transition program

AZ SB1196

Vehicle lighting; law enforcement; exceptions

AZ HB2433

Mental health transition program; release

AZ HB2337

Prisoners; medical treatment; pregnancy; requirements

AZ SB1428

Drug paraphernalia; repeal

AZ SB1507

Transitional training permittees; medical licensure

AZ HB2273

Corrections; Marana; transitional facility; study

AZ SB1598

Transitional services; long-term care; appropriation

AZ SB1463

Special education; transition services; requirements

AZ HB2606

Home arrest; electronic monitoring

Similar Bills

AZ SB1196

Vehicle lighting; law enforcement; exceptions

OR HB2013

Relating to mental health treatment providers.

OR HB3126

Relating to behavioral health treatment.

CA AB1611

Emergency hospital services: costs.

OR HB2041

Relating to mental health services parity.

AZ HB2704

AHCCCS; preventive dental care

AZ HB2525

AHCCCS; outpatient services

CA SB1397

Behavioral health services coverage.