AZ HB2444

Creates a two-tiered earned release credit system where prisoners sentenced for serious, violent, or aggravated felonies earn one day of credit for every six days served, while prisoners sentenced for other offenses earn one day for every three days served.

Earned release credits cannot reduce the term of imprisonment imposed by the court and may be forfeited by the director if a prisoner fails to follow departmental rules or participate in required programs.

Prisoners who reach their earned release date must be released to begin community supervision unless the director believes they may be a sexually violent person and the screening process is incomplete.

Requires the state department of corrections to coordinate with the Arizona health care cost containment system to enroll prisoners in health care benefits before release, including submitting prerelease applications at least 30 days before release.

Establishes care teams managed by regional behavioral health authorities to facilitate prisoner transition to community by coordinating behavioral health services, housing, employment support, and other community resources.