MS SB2617

Department of Corrections must establish vocational training programs at each state correctional facility, offering training in industries where offenders are most likely to find employment after release.

Department must develop guidelines integrating offender participation in vocational programs with completion of case plans and establish benchmarks for transitioning from training to employment and post-release job placement.

Department must consider offender skills, vocational interests, security classification, duration of availability, and potential rehabilitation benefits when assigning offenders to vocational training programs.

Effective date is July 1, 2016.