Senate Bill 2294 Summary

• Converts four restitution centers (Greenwood, Flowood, Hinds County, and Pascagoula) to post-release reentry centers serving individuals eligible for parole or early release who lack immediate access to housing or support services.

• Limits post-release reentry center stays to 90 days or until alternative housing becomes available, whichever is shorter, and prohibits detaining eligible individuals who refuse placement.

• Requires Department of Corrections to provide comprehensive supportive services including counseling, housing assistance, job training, health care, education, substance abuse treatment, and cognitive behavioral programs at reentry centers.

• Repeals sections authorizing county/municipal restitution centers and cooperation between Department of Public Welfare and Department of Corrections for restitution center services.

• Brings forward multiple existing code sections related to sheriff compensation, sex offender registration, correctional department functions, and probation violation procedures for potential amendment.