HI SB304

Appropriates $739,440 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to establish permanent positions in the Adult Client Services Branch of the First Circuit Court, including 8 probation officer positions, 1 social worker assistant position, and 2 clerk positions.

Appropriates an additional $140,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 for operating expenses for the Adult Client Services Branch of the First Circuit Court.

Aims to align community supervision caseloads with national standards recommended by the American Probation and Parole Association: intensive supervision at 20:1, moderate to high risk at 50:1, and low risk at 200:1.

References research showing that reducing caseloads for higher-risk individuals to 50:1 ratio increases supervision quality, including more office sessions, field visits, and treatment referrals, resulting in significantly better probation outcomes and reduced recidivism.

Takes effect on July 1, 2025.