Expands prison work release program eligibility and participation

• Democratic2

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Cordell Cleare says this is needed

This legislation will ensure that eligible incarcerated individuals will be able to participate in prison work release programs. Changes in sentencing laws throughout the years have resulting in more and more people serving determinate rather than indeterminate sentences. A revitalized Temporary Release program is fully consistent with the underlying goals of the recent merger of the New York Department of Correctional Services and the Division of Parole to form the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), which include enhanced public safety through the promotion of individuals' successful reentry and reintegration into the community The Temporary Release program has limitless potential to further this purpose. Temporary Release provides for a structured transition from incarceration to life in the community, helping participants to develop the work, educational, and basic life management skills they need to transition back into their communities. The evidence has shown that programs like Temporary Release are effec- tive at reducing recidivism, which enhances public safety. Participation in the Temporary Release program provides a sound and accurate picture of a person's readiness for release to the community as a law-abiding citizen. Not only does it aid the board in making decisions about read- iness for release, it can also be an invaluable resource to help DOCCS staff identify the support a person needs while being supervised in the community. For example, it can help identify the need for better job skill development, the need for more education to further career advancement, or the need for ongoing after-care to address a substance abuse problem. Temporary Release is an exceptionally cost-effective program; indeed, a robust Temporary Release program is a sure way to reduce the staggering cost of the prison system.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.