AZ HB2266

Establishes a transition program allowing eligible inmates to receive community-based services for up to 90 days before release, administered by the Department of Corrections through contracts with private or nonprofit entities.

Expands eligibility for the transition program to include inmates convicted solely of drug possession or use offenses (marijuana, dangerous drugs, narcotic drugs, or drug paraphernalia) if they agree to comply with required conditions and do not have disqualifying factors.

Requires the Department of Corrections to conduct annual recidivism studies, evaluate participating inmates, and submit yearly reports to the Governor and Legislature including recidivism rates, number of participants, types of services provided, and waitlist numbers.

Modifies earned release credit requirements to allow prisoners who fail to achieve eighth-grade functional literacy to be released into the transition program if enrolled in a program to achieve that literacy level, as an alternative to remaining incarcerated.

Sets specific eligibility criteria and disqualifying factors including prohibitions based on violent crime convictions, felony detainers, major rule violations, previous release violations, custody classification, and refusal to participate in self-improvement programs.