Bill > HB224

This bill transforms the three existing restitution centers in Mississippi (located in Madison County, Flowood, and Pascagoula) into post-release reentry centers designed to help incarcerated individuals successfully transition back into society. The centers will be available to individuals eligible for release, including those on parole or early release supervision, who do not have immediate housing options upon leaving prison. Residents can stay at these centers for up to 90 days or until alternative housing is found, and participation is voluntary. The Department of Corrections will be responsible for administering comprehensive support services at these centers, including assistance with obtaining counseling, housing, job skills training, driver's licenses, healthcare, education, cognitive behavioral programs, substance abuse treatment, and other community support services. The bill also seeks to develop evidence-based pilot programs aimed at personal growth, overcoming problematic behaviors, and enhancing successful community reintegration. Additionally, the legislation repeals previous statutes related to restitution centers and updates various legal references to replace "restitution center" with "post-release reentry center" across multiple sections of Mississippi law. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, marking a significant shift in the state's approach to post-incarceration support and rehabilitation.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0224.xml