HI HB1551

Establishes a minimum-security housing program within the Department of Public Safety for short-term adult offenders in counties with populations exceeding 750,000, located at or near a community correctional center and prison.

Program targets probation or parole violators, illicit substance abuse furlough violators, sentenced felon probationers, and sentenced misdemeanants identified as high-risk for substance use or recidivism.

Provides substance abuse treatment, cognitive behavioral intervention, transitional programming, and support services through Department of Health assistance to serve as alternatives to incarceration.

Includes capacity to house up to 450 short-term adult offenders and accommodate adult males in furlough programs in a minimum-security setting to alleviate overcrowded community correctional facilities.

Authorizes general obligation bonds for design and construction of the 450-bed facility and appropriates general revenue funds for staff hiring, facility operations, and health services for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021.