Rhode Island Senate Bill S0622

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Report Pass: 6/13/23
• Passed: 6/14/23

Caption

Senate Resolution Respectfully Requesting Information And Guidance From The Rhode Island Department Of Human Services (dhs) In Conjunction With The Rhode Island Department Of Corrections (doc) On Current And Potential Services And Programs For Transitioning Females In The Criminal Justice System Through Pre- And Post-release

Impact

If enacted, the bill would direct the DHS and DOC to prepare a comprehensive report by January 5, 2024, which would encompass a wide range of support services needed for women. This includes assessing current transitional housing opportunities, social and healthcare services, and providing detailed data on potential costs and funding sources. The intent is to create a more structured support system that addresses the unique challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system, ultimately aiming for better reentry outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill S0622 seeks to enhance support for women transitioning out of the criminal justice system in the state of Rhode Island. Introduced by Senator Meghan Kallman, the bill highlights the specific needs of incarcerated women, many of whom face significant barriers such as low-income status, mental health issues, and histories of trauma or abuse. The resolution calls on the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS) and Department of Corrections (DOC) to identify potential resources, including housing and healthcare, that could facilitate smoother reentry for these individuals.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding S0622 may be the allocation of state resources toward these initiatives. Some lawmakers may argue about the feasibility of implementing more programs, especially in light of limited budgets. Additionally, while the focus on women's issues has gained traction, discussions could arise regarding the intersectional needs of all genders in the criminal justice system and the merits of strictly focusing on female populations for support services. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on prioritizing these funds and how they fit into broader criminal justice reform efforts.