Louisiana House Bill HB66

Louisiana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/23
• Refer: 3/6/23
• Refer: 4/10/23

Caption

Provides relative to forfeiture of good time credit (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The bill introduces significant changes to the way good time credits are handled, mandating complete forfeiture of credits for serious offenses, thus impacting the release timeline for many inmates. This shift is expected to strengthen the deterrence factor against violent and disruptive behavior in correctional settings. Additionally, the removal of the previous cap on forfeiture—previously set at 180 days—could lead to more extensive sentences for inmates who violate rules. The proposed regulations concerning eligibility for the restoration of credits are also more stringent, potentially locking inmates easier out of opportunities for credit restoration.

Summary

House Bill 66 outlines amendments to the current regulations surrounding the forfeiture of good time credits for incarcerated individuals in the state of Louisiana. The bill changes the nature of forfeiture from permissive to mandatory for various offenses committed by inmates, such as violent crimes, certain types of battery, and escapes. The bill emphasizes that inmates will lose credits toward sentence reduction when they commit, attempt, or conspire to commit specified offenses, aiming to instill a more stringent approach to inmate conduct within correctional facilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 66 is likely mixed, with proponents arguing that the bill strengthens safety and order within correctional facilities by holding inmates accountable for their actions. However, critics are concerned that these mandatory forfeiture requirements may disproportionately affect the rehabilitation prospects of inmates and exacerbate existing issues within the prison system. Many stakeholders, including criminal justice reform advocates, express apprehension about the long-term implications of such a punitive approach.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 66 is the balance between maintaining order and rehabilitation in the prison system. Advocates for the bill highlight the necessity of strict measures to dissuade unlawful conduct among inmates; however, opponents argue that such harsh penalties might undermine rehabilitation efforts and increase recidivism. The debate highlights a fundamental conflict between public safety objectives and the principles of criminal justice reform aimed at fostering rehabilitation and reducing re-offending rates.