SB361 Summary

• Amends Section 15-22-24 to authorize the Board of Pardons and Paroles to expend funds for recruitment materials, training of law enforcement officers and support staff, public education, and promoting the agency's mission.

• Reorganizes and clarifies the Board's duties regarding parole determination, prisoner supervision, investigation of violations, risk assessment implementation, and employment assistance for parolees and probationers.

• Requires probation and parole officers to complete training in assessment techniques, case planning, risk reduction, communication skills, behavioral health, and evidence-based practices by January 1, 2017 (for existing officers) or within two years of hire date (for new officers).

• Establishes that probation and parole supervision must be based on validated risk and needs assessments, with no probation and parole officer assigned more than 20 active high-risk cases at any one time.

• Adds Section 34-3-63 to authorize the Alabama State Bar Executive Director to establish special funds receiving fees, grants, and contributions for conducting studies, educating attorneys and public officials, and promoting the profession, with funds continuously appropriated and maintained separately.