Bill > HB1173

This bill modifies existing state law to allow the Commissioner of Corrections to release inmates from state prison to participate in post-secondary education programs in the community. Under the proposed changes, inmates can be released to attend educational programs for which they have been accepted, similar to current provisions for employment or public service. The bill requires that for inmates who have not served sufficient time to be eligible for parole, the sentencing court and prosecutor must be notified of the proposed release and given 10 days to object. If the prosecutor objects, a hearing must be scheduled where the court will decide whether to approve or deny the release. The legislation also stipulates that time spent in post-secondary education outside the prison will count as a full day toward serving their sentence. Additionally, inmates released for education will remain subject to institutional rules and can be recalled by the Commissioner if their release is deemed to potentially endanger community safety. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, providing a mechanism for incarcerated individuals to pursue higher education as part of their rehabilitation process.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1656&inflect=2