MS SB2059

Establishes a pilot reentry program in Jackson to help former offenders transition from correctional facilities into the community, reduce recidivism, and enhance public safety.

Requires the Mississippi Department of Corrections, Department of Health, Department of Mental Health, and the City of Jackson to jointly develop a comprehensive program providing individualized assessments, referrals to services (employment, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, housing, legal services), and family involvement strategies.

Creates a Reentry Council chaired by the Commissioner of Corrections and including the State Health Officer, Executive Director of Mental Health, and Mayor of Jackson, authorized to establish a task force and submit a five-year strategic plan by September 1, 2015.

Council must set measurable goals including number of offenders served, housing availability, employment rates, and recidivism reduction, with annual progress reports to state leadership.

Program and council automatically terminate on September 1, 2020, or upon submission of the final annual report, whichever occurs first; effective July 1, 2015.