New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A04325

Introduced
2/4/25  
Refer
2/4/25  

Caption

Requires the department of corrections and community supervision to establish discharge plans and reentry services for wrongfully convicted individuals upon their discharge which includes housing needs, educational needs, employment needs, medical needs, and specific social service needs.

Summary

Bill A04325 aims to amend the correction law in New York by requiring the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to establish discharge plans and reentry services specifically for individuals who have been wrongfully convicted. The bill defines a wrongfully convicted individual as someone who has been convicted but later determined to be innocent. It mandates the development of tailored discharge plans that address various needs of these individuals, including housing, education, employment, medical care, and social services, prior to their release from custody.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will create a legal obligation for the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to provide comprehensive support to wrongfully convicted individuals upon their release. This could significantly alter the reentry process for these individuals, ensuring they have access to necessary resources that can aid their transition back into society. The bill may also prompt changes in existing policies and practices related to discharge planning and reentry services within the correctional system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A04325 appears to be positive, as it addresses a critical issue regarding the reintegration of wrongfully convicted individuals into society. There is a recognition of the unique challenges faced by these individuals, and the proposed support measures are likely to garner support from advocacy groups and lawmakers focused on justice reform. However, the lack of voting history and committee discussions leaves some uncertainty about the bill's reception in the legislature.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the discharge plans and the adequacy of resources allocated for reentry services. Some lawmakers or stakeholders may express concerns about the financial implications of providing comprehensive support to wrongfully convicted individuals, while others may argue that the state has a moral obligation to assist those who have suffered due to wrongful convictions. The balance between fiscal responsibility and social justice will likely be a key area of debate.

Companion Bills

NY S05701

Same As Requires the department of corrections and community supervision to establish discharge plans and reentry services for wrongfully convicted individuals upon their discharge which includes housing needs, educational needs, employment needs, medical needs, and specific social service needs.

Previously Filed As

NY S05701

Requires the department of corrections and community supervision to establish discharge plans and reentry services for wrongfully convicted individuals upon their discharge which includes housing needs, educational needs, employment needs, medical needs, and specific social service needs.

NY H1327

Community Services for Needy Individuals and Families

NY HB1327

Community Services for Needy Individuals and Families:

NY SB5029

AN ACT Relating to the transportation of individuals released or discharged from the custody of the department of corrections;

NY HB1906

Local departments of social services and health districts; screening for unmet social needs.

NY S10349

Prohibits the department of corrections and community supervision from using artificial intelligence in evaluating the risk and needs principles used to measure rehabilitation of a person, in determining which incarcerated individuals may be released on parole or the level of supervision for individuals on parole; prohibits the department from using artificial intelligence when developing transitional accountability plans.

NY S1166

Services for Medically Needy Children

NY A03446

Requires each town, village, and city to develop a "housing action plan for everyone", including consideration of local needs and specific strategies to address those local needs.

NY S05194

Requires each town, village, and city to develop a "housing action plan for everyone", including consideration of local needs and specific strategies to address those local needs.

NY HB07071

An Act Concerning Families With Service Needs.

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IA HF2731

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HI HB286

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