MS HB685

Extends the repeal date from July 1, 2020 to July 1, 2024 for statutes authorizing the Department of Corrections to house state offenders in county jails when state facility space is unavailable.

Allows sheriffs or board of supervisors presidents to request that inmates serve sentences in their county of conviction, with the Commissioner required to provide written certification if requests are denied.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Corrections to employ a Deputy Commissioner for Programs, Education, Re-entry, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services focused on reducing recidivism and preparing offenders for employment upon release.

Establishes that the State Parole Board shall select the administrative assistant for parole matters and designates deputy commissioners as peace officers when performing custody and transportation duties relating to offenders.

Requires the Department of Corrections to reimburse counties at the rate specified in Section 47-5-901(2) for expenses related to housing and care of state offenders participating in the state-county work program, and revises transitional reentry center bed requirements to specify a range of 100 to 800 beds.