FL S2096

Department of Corrections must develop an operational plan for a community reentry program for the 2013-2014 fiscal year, including details on facilities, staff, budget, security, programming, and inmate selection methods.

All inmates within 36 months of release must be considered for the program based on risk assessment criteria including rehabilitation potential, community safety, and geographic placement near family or intended residence.

Selected inmates must be transferred into the program no later than 24 months before release; program provides residential care and reentry services including substance abuse treatment, housing assistance, employment assistance, vocational education, and life skills training.

Department must submit a status report and budget request by December 1, 2012, to the Governor and Legislature documenting projected inmates to be served and funding needed.

Repeals restrictions on inmate transportation methods in work release programs, allowing modes beyond walking, bicycling, public transit, and family/employer transport, and removes the requirement for state vehicle transportation to be contingent on specific appropriations.