Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB439

Introduced
3/16/23  
Refer
3/16/23  

Caption

To Create The Legislative Recidivism Reduction Task Force.

Impact

The task force, composed of various stakeholders including law enforcement, legal representatives, and community members, will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive data analysis to identify the factors contributing to high recidivism rates in Arkansas. The intended outcome is to produce data-driven recommendations that can enhance reintegration efforts for former inmates, improve supervision practices, and eliminate barriers to successful reentry into society. This initiative represents a focused effort to reform the state's criminal justice system with an emphasis on public safety and rehabilitation.

Summary

Senate Bill 439, titled 'To Create The Legislative Recidivism Reduction Task Force,' aims to address the concerning rates of recidivism among individuals released from Arkansas prisons. The bill acknowledges that approximately 46% of individuals released from prison return within three years, significantly contributing to crime rates and prison admissions in the state. By establishing a dedicated task force, the legislation seeks to implement policy changes to effectively reduce recidivism and, consequently, lower crime rates and prison populations in Arkansas.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the composition of the task force and the effectiveness of proposed measures. Critics might argue that the involvement of law enforcement representatives could bias recommendations in favor of punitive measures rather than support systems for rehabilitation. Furthermore, debates may occur regarding the resource allocation required for the task force's initiatives and the actual implementation of its recommendations, especially in light of potential political opposition to criminal justice reforms.

Future_steps

The bill stipulates that the task force must submit a preliminary report by December 31, 2023, and a final report by December 1, 2024, detailing its findings, activities, and recommendations. This timeline highlights a commitment to timely evaluation of recidivism strategies and their projected impact on public safety and state finances. By working closely with organizations like the Council of State Governments Justice Center, the task force aims to leverage expertise in crafting effective strategies to mitigate recidivism.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB4

An Act For The Bureau Of Legislative Research And The Legislative Council Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SR24

Congratulating Roger Allan Norman, Legislative Auditor For Arkansas Legislative Audit, Upon His Retirement And Commending Him For His Contributions To The State Of Arkansas.

AR SR9

To Recognize And Commend The National Conference Of State Legislatures (ncsl) For Its Leadership And Commitment To The Legislative Institution On Its Fiftieth Anniversary In 2025.

AR HB1065

An Act For The Department Of Finance And Administration - Disbursing Officer Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1015

An Act For Arkansas Legislative Audit Of The Legislative Joint Auditing Committee Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1064

An Act For The Department Of Finance And Administration Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1001

An Act For The Arkansas House Of Representatives Of The Ninety-fourth General Assembly Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1002

An Act For The Arkansas House Of Representatives - Staff Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB51

An Act For The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.