Missouri House Bill HB1783

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Requires the cost to the state for incarcerating an offender be considered during sentencing and parole hearings

Impact

The enactment of HB1783 would significantly alter the way offenders are assessed for parole eligibility and could lead to a reduction in state expenditures on incarceration. By integrating the expected costs of incarceration into the parole process, the legislation aims to encourage the parole board to make more informed decisions that could potentially reduce the number of individuals held in the prison system. This bill also includes provisions for assessing an offender's rehabilitation progress, indicating a shift toward a more rehabilitative approach within the justice system.

Summary

House Bill 1783 focuses on modifying the state's parole and incarceration policies, specifically by requiring the consideration of the financial implications of incarceration during sentencing and parole hearings. The bill emphasizes the cost of housing offenders in correctional institutions and mandates that prosecutors provide estimates of these costs. It seeks to balance the needs of the state budget with the principles of justice and rehabilitation by ensuring that economic factors are considered in the decision-making process for parole and sentencing.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face contention regarding the balance between financial considerations and the rights of victims. There are concerns that emphasizing costs might undermine the seriousness of the offenses committed, particularly in cases involving violence or abuse. Advocates for victims’ rights may argue that economic decisions should not dictate parole eligibility or the release of offenders who pose a risk to public safety. The bill's requirement for corroborated evidence when evaluating histories of domestic violence also raises questions about the potential implications for victims and the standards applied in these assessments.