Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB771

Introduced
12/8/23  
Refer
12/8/23  

Caption

Recreational opportunities and structured programming for inmates in state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction. (FE)

Impact

AB771 significantly impacts state laws pertaining to corrections and inmate management. By setting minimum requirements for recreation and programming hours, the bill pushes for a systemic change in how correctional institutions approach inmate care. Facilities must comply with the standards outlined in the bill, which could involve reallocating resources or increasing staffing to meet the mandated staffing levels and programming requirements. Additionally, the law emphasizes the importance of inmate welfare and rehabilitation, aligning with broader criminal justice reform trends focusing on reducing recidivism rates.

Summary

Assembly Bill 771 mandates that all state correctional institutions and county jails provide recreational opportunities and structured programming tailored to the needs and interests of inmates. The bill requires the Department of Corrections to oversee that these facilities offer a minimum amount of structured activities, which may include academic instruction, vocational training, career development, and reentry planning. This legislation aims to enhance inmate rehabilitation and prepare them for reintegration into society by ensuring they engage in meaningful activities while incarcerated.

Contention

Support for AB771 primarily comes from advocates of criminal justice reform who argue that structured programming can greatly improve the chances of successful reentry for inmates. However, concerns have been raised regarding the practicality of implementing the requirements, especially in institutions facing staffing shortages. Critics may argue that the bill could place additional burdens on facilities that already struggle with limited resources. Additionally, the provision allowing for recreational activities to be suspended during lockdowns could be contentious, raising questions about inmate rights and the conditions of confinement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB731

Recreational opportunities and structured programming for inmates in state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction. (FE)

WI AB815

Bathing periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI SB745

Bathing periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI AB805

In-person visiting periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI SB763

In-person visiting periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI AB816

Minimum wage for all inmates and residents of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB862

Minimum wage for all inmates and residents of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB770

Free feminine hygiene products for inmates of state correctional institutions or county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI SB796

Free feminine hygiene products for inmates of state correctional institutions or county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI SB730

Technology service access by inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

WI SB731

Recreational opportunities and structured programming for inmates in state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction. (FE)

NJ SCR94

Urges Secretary of Higher Education and Educational Opportunity Fund Board to study and modernize program regulations, particularly regulations related to student funding priority levels.

NJ ACR68

Urges Secretary of Higher Education and Educational Opportunity Fund Board to study and modernize program regulations, particularly regulations related to student funding priority levels.

NJ ACR110

Urges Secretary of Higher Education and Educational Opportunity Fund Board to study and modernize program regulations, particularly regulations related to student funding priority levels.

NJ SCR75

Urges Secretary of Higher Education and Educational Opportunity Fund Board to study and modernize program regulations, particularly regulations related to student funding priority levels.

NJ S3539

Requires public institution of higher education to study cost drivers, administrative productivity, organizational structure, space utilization, and faculty productivity.

NJ S2479

Requires public institution of higher education to study cost drivers, administrative productivity, organizational structure, space utilization, and faculty productivity.

CA AB746

Inmate Cooperative Program.