Bill > A04584

This bill requires the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to establish a nonpartisan, peer-led civic engagement program for incarcerated individuals in all state correctional facilities. The program must be completed by each incarcerated person within one year prior to their release and will consist of three 90-minute sessions covering topics like voting rights, governmental institutions, and current affairs. Peer educators who are also incarcerated will be specially trained by nonpartisan civic organizations to deliver the curriculum. The program aims to promote successful reintegration, democratic participation, and reduce recidivism by ensuring participants understand their civic responsibilities and voting rights. The bill mandates that the program be easily accessible, with provisions to prevent scheduling conflicts or administrative barriers to participation. Additionally, the department must create and distribute printed and electronic informational materials about voter registration and election processes, including a civics handbook and pocket information card. The program's implementation and participation will be tracked through annual reports that will disaggregate data by various factors such as facility and release location.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4584