Bill > SB2242

This bill establishes a new inmate work release program specifically for the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), allowing eligible state inmates to perform services for the department. The program permits inmates who are not convicted of violent crimes and have less than one year remaining on their sentence to work for MDOT, with strict guidelines for wage distribution. Specifically, inmates' wages will be allocated as follows: 25% toward dependent support or court-ordered fines and restitution, 50% saved in a personal account to be accessed upon release, up to 15% for administrative expenses, and 10% for personal incidental expenses. The Mississippi Department of Corrections will define participant eligibility and can potentially collaborate with MAGCOR (the prison industries corporation) to manage the program. Inmates must maintain a local financial institution account and provide check stubs, and the program can be established in each MDOT district. The bill ensures that inmate compensation will be at least minimum wage and provides a structured approach to helping inmates develop work skills, support their dependents, and save money for their eventual release, with the program set to begin on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2242.xml