MO HB539

Establishes a two-year pilot project beginning January 1, 2012, with the Department of Corrections and Division of Family Services to increase children's access to incarcerated mothers.

Covers two women's prison facilities—one in an urban area and one in a rural area—and focuses on children living 50 or more miles from their mothers' incarceration facility.

Authorizes the use of transportation and other available means to increase visitation between children and incarcerated mothers through collaboration between corrections and family services departments.

Requires funding from existing appropriations or from moneys specifically appropriated for the pilot project.

Mandates a joint report to the governor and general assembly by February 1, 2015, evaluating the program's efficacy, costs, and recommendations for potential expansion to all women's prison facilities.