Bill > S1241

This bill amends existing Massachusetts law to enhance educational programming for incarcerated emerging adults, defined as individuals aged 18-25. The legislation requires state prisons and county correctional facilities to maximize diverse educational opportunities, ensuring that every facility provides at least one high school equivalency program and high school equivalency testing opportunities. Facilities must offer specialized, age-appropriate educational classes for emerging adults, including both those with and without high school degrees, such as college readiness, college credit, workforce readiness, and vocational classes. The bill mandates that emerging adults have access to at least four hours of daily programming, with at least four hours being out-of-cell and congregate to create a more conducive learning environment. In-cell learning through tablets can supplement these hours. Additionally, the bill emphasizes maximizing access to workforce development and employment training opportunities, and encourages innovative programming through partnerships with nonprofits and educational institutions, with a preference for programs that include staff with similar lived experiences to those who are incarcerated.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1241