Missouri House Bill HB2248

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 2/1/22
• Report Pass: 2/23/22
• Refer: 2/23/22

Caption

Changes the law regarding private probation supervision services by prohibiting drug and alcohol screen tests unrelated to the offense and requiring the use of earned compliance credits

Impact

The bill will have significant implications on the management of probation services in the state, potentially reducing the frequency of unrelated drug and alcohol tests which some argue contribute to high failure rates among probationers. Proponents believe this legislation will promote rehabilitation rather than mere punishment, making probation more effective by focusing on the issues pertinent to the individual and their rehabilitation process. This could lead to fewer technical violations leading to incarceration.

Summary

House Bill 2248 aims to reform the laws surrounding private probation services in the state by prohibiting drug and alcohol screenings that are unrelated to the specific offenses of those placed on probation. This legislation proposes to amend existing statutes to ensure that the conditions of probation are tailored more specifically to the individual's situation, thereby aligning the requirements with the nature of their offenses. Additionally, the bill would allow judges the discretion to contract with private entities to provide probation supervision for misdemeanor offenders if the Division of Probation and Parole is not obligated to do so.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its challenges and points of contention. Critics express concern that such reforms might allow for leniency in monitoring offenders, potentially undermining public safety. There is an ongoing debate about the balance between effective rehabilitation and ensuring that the probation system adequately enforces accountability for individuals. Stakeholders from various backgrounds, including law enforcement and criminal justice reform advocates, are likely to have differing views on the effectiveness and implications of these legislative changes.