Bill > SB5139

This bill modifies the composition and operations of the state's Reentry Council, expanding its membership from 15 to 22 members appointed by the governor. The bill adds new requirements for council membership, including representatives from additional state agencies like the health care authority and employment security department, and specifically mandates the inclusion of two currently incarcerated individuals (one from a men's facility and one from a women's facility), two crime survivors or victims with gender diversity, and maintaining existing requirements for representation from various stakeholder groups. The bill also changes compensation rules, allowing council members to receive compensation according to state guidelines and travel expense reimbursement. Additionally, it modifies meeting protocols, specifically noting that incarcerated council members must participate virtually unless the meeting is held at their correctional facility. The quorum requirement is increased from seven to twelve members, and the council is still required to meet at least four times per year. These changes aim to enhance the council's diversity, representation, and operational effectiveness in addressing reentry issues for incarcerated individuals.