MI HB4965

Creates a Family Advisory Board within the Department of Corrections with 10-15 members including a department employee from community corrections, the legislative corrections ombudsman, and representatives of incarcerated/formerly incarcerated individuals and their families.

Appoints board members based on governor recommendations from nonprofit entities serving families of incarcerated individuals, including 2-3 family members of currently incarcerated individuals, 1-3 family members of formerly incarcerated individuals, at least 1 individual with incarcerated parent(s), and 1-2 formerly incarcerated individuals.

Establishes term lengths of 2 years for most appointed members (with 5 initial members serving 1-year terms) and requires board to meet at least quarterly with majority of members constituting a quorum.

Directs board to advise the department on policies and programs supporting family reunification, enhance communication with families regarding incarcerated/formerly incarcerated individuals, identify barriers to reunification, and file annual reports to legislative committees by October 1.

Requires department to provide necessary staffing and website/facility information about the board; allows board to create regional committees or facility-focused family councils; board members serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for necessary expenses.