Bill > A04953

This bill creates a temporary New York State Criminal Justice Commission on Reentry to comprehensively study and investigate challenges faced by incarcerated individuals when returning to society after release from state and local correctional facilities. The commission will consist of 18 members, including representatives from community-based organizations, criminal justice advocates, and academic professionals, as well as heads of various state departments and agencies. Members will be appointed by legislative leaders and will receive no compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses. The commission is tasked with analyzing existing policies, identifying obstacles to successful reintegration, comparing New York's approach to other states and federal policies, and collecting data from state and federal agencies. The commission will have the power to conduct studies, hold public and private hearings, and request assistance from state agencies. By December 31st of the year following the bill's enactment, the commission must submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations to the governor and legislature. The bill appropriates $250,000 to support the commission's work and is set to expire on December 31st of the year following its enactment, emphasizing its temporary nature and focused mission of improving reentry outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4953