AZ HB2849

Repeals section 31-229.02 regarding functional literacy requirements for prisoner release.

Adds wildland firefighter release credit of one day for every two days served while engaged in fighting wildland fires or training for wildland firefighting.

Adds recidivism reduction release credit of one and one-half days for every six days served for prisoners participating in approved programs (substance abuse treatment, education, vocational training, reentry programs).

Modifies transition program eligibility under section 31-281 to allow mandatory release of drug possession offenders who agree to transition program conditions, removing housing requirement as barrier to release.

Requires annual reporting to legislature on recidivism rates, prisoner participation in release credit programs, and outcomes for transition program participants, with detailed breakdowns by institution and offense type.