Bill > H3130

This bill allows the Director of the Department of Corrections to conditionally release inmates serving sentences for drug-related offenses under specific circumstances. To be eligible, inmates must have committed their crime due to substance addiction, served at least 36 months or half their sentence, completed a chemical dependency treatment program, have no prior conditional releases, and no violent crime convictions in the past ten years. The treatment program must be highly structured, include educational and vocational training, promote personal responsibility, and require a chemical use assessment. Inmates must sign a contract agreeing to follow program rules, submit to random drug tests and monitoring, and can have their sentence extended if they fail to complete the program. The director can deny release if the inmate poses a public safety risk and must have a comprehensive release plan addressing aftercare, treatment, employment, and housing. The prosecuting authority and sentencing court will be notified and given an opportunity to comment on the potential release. If an inmate violates the conditions of release, they can be returned to prison to serve the remainder of their sentence. The bill aims to provide a rehabilitation-focused approach for drug offenders by offering treatment and structured support for reintegration into society.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3130&session=126&summary=B