Bill > H1663

This bill aims to restore the furlough program for incarcerated persons in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Allowing the Commissioner to authorize incarcerated individuals to be temporarily away from correctional facilities for up to 14 days per 12-month period or 7 days at a time for specific purposes, such as attending a relative's funeral, visiting a critically ill relative, obtaining medical/social services, contacting prospective employers, or securing a suitable residence upon release. 2. Permitting the Commissioner to establish camps on state-controlled land where male prisoners, including those serving life sentences who have served at least 8 years, can be placed for employment in reforestation, maintenance, and development of state forests. 3. Authorizing the Commissioner to transfer sentenced prisoners between correctional institutions, jails, and houses of correction, except for those serving sentences for certain violent crimes. The bill aims to provide more opportunities for incarcerated individuals to maintain connections with their communities, access essential services, and prepare for their eventual reintegration into society.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H1663