HI HB2656

Authorizes the Department of Public Safety to grant furloughs to up to 200 additional inmates statewide without requiring nightly return to correctional facilities when insufficient bed space exists.

Furloughed inmates under this program must meet minimum requirements: reside on the same island, be classified as non-violent offenders, have a three-person support group with no felony convictions, submit to random drug testing, and report bi-weekly to a parole officer.

Requires furloughed inmates to be employed or actively seeking employment with at least two employers per week, or be enrolled in school or department-approved learning programs.

Violations of furlough conditions can result in re-incarceration for up to 60 days under the new program's stricter standards.

Mandates the Department of Public Safety submit semi-annual reports to the legislature beginning December 1, 2010, detailing the number of inmates furloughed under this Act and any associated problems or issues.