Bill > S1327

This bill amends the existing Chapter 211F of the General Laws to define and establish "pretrial services programs" as part of the state's community corrections system. The key provisions of the bill are: 1. It defines "pretrial services plan" as a written proposal submitted to the Office of Community Corrections for approval and funding of a pretrial services program, and "pretrial services program" as any program operated by a state, local, or private agency that the Office deems appropriate for individuals awaiting trial. 2. It expands the duties of the Office of Community Corrections to include the oversight and funding of pretrial services programs, in addition to its existing responsibilities for community corrections plans. 3. It allows the court to order participation in a pretrial services program as a condition of release, in lieu of bail, and authorizes the probation department to utilize these programs for pretrial supervision. 4. It requires the Office of Community Corrections to consider the impact of pretrial services programs on reducing pretrial detention and increasing court appearance rates when reviewing and approving community corrections and pretrial services plans.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S1327