Bill > HB1340

This bill establishes the Prison Education Delivery Reform Commission as an independent unit of State government, tasked with developing recommendations to improve education for individuals involved in the criminal and juvenile justice systems, with the goals of enhancing public safety and reducing recidivism, which is the rate at which formerly incarcerated individuals re-offend. The Commission will be composed of various members, including legislators, state secretaries from relevant departments like Public Safety and Correctional Services and Juvenile Services, the Attorney General, the Public Defender, a representative from the judiciary, and appointees by the Governor who have expertise in correctional education, law enforcement, and include individuals who have experienced the justice system themselves. The Commission is required to convene an advisory stakeholder group, conduct public input forums, research best practices in education for incarcerated individuals, evaluate current workforce programs, and will receive staff support from the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy. Finally, the Commission must submit an annual report detailing its activities, findings, and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly by January 1st each year, starting in 2027.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1340?ys=2026RS