MS HB954

Extends case plan requirements to inmates who have committed capital offenses, in addition to parole-eligible inmates, with plans developed in consultation with the Parole Board to guide rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.

Requires case plans for capital offense inmates to include at least two of four program areas: criminal thinking, alcohol and drugs, life skills, and behavioral health, completed within 90 days of admission.

Mandates screening for physiological and social issues in capital offense inmate case plans, including programs such as 70 X 7 and Love Your Neighbor that focus on why crimes were committed and preventing future crimes.

Requires caseworker meetings with capital offense inmates every eight weeks to review case plan progress, with progress reports submitted to the Parole Board every four months.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.