Relates to the role of the department of corrections and community supervision in planning and facilitating the discharge or release of incarcerated individuals to the community.
Summary
Bill S04520 amends the correction law to mandate the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) to create comprehensive discharge plans for incarcerated individuals prior to their release. These plans must address mental health needs, medical care, housing, employment, and substance use disorder services, and should be prepared in consultation with non-profit providers and the individuals themselves. The bill stipulates that discharge plans should be initiated at least 45 days before release and completed no later than seven days prior to discharge, ensuring that individuals have access to necessary resources upon reintegration into the community.
Impact
The bill will significantly alter the discharge process for incarcerated individuals in New York by formalizing the requirement for comprehensive discharge plans. This change aims to improve the transition of individuals back into society, potentially reducing recidivism rates by ensuring that they have access to housing, employment, and health services. The bill also emphasizes the importance of voluntary participation in these services, aligning with privacy laws regarding personal information.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S04520 appears to be positive, as evidenced by unanimous support in committee votes. The discussions indicate a shared recognition of the need for structured support for individuals reentering society, reflecting a growing awareness of the complexities involved in successful reintegration.
Contention
While there seems to be broad support for the bill, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the discharge plans, particularly concerning the adequacy of resources available for housing and employment services. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the feasibility of coordinating with non-profit providers and ensuring that all individuals receive the necessary support in a timely manner.
Relates to the role of the department of corrections and community supervision in planning and facilitating the discharge or release of incarcerated individuals to the community.
Relates to the role of the department of corrections and community supervision in planning and facilitating the discharge or release of incarcerated individuals to the community.
Relates to the department of correction and community supervision's role with respect to discharge planning to assist incarcerated individuals in obtaining housing before release to community supervision.
Relates to the department of correction and community supervision's role with respect to discharge planning to assist incarcerated individuals in obtaining housing before release to community supervision.
Prohibits charging a fee to obtain a certified copy or certified transcript of birth when the department of corrections and community supervision or a local correctional facility requests such for an individual under community supervision in connection with such individual's ongoing supervision in the community.
Establishes an employee mental health services program for all employees who work for the department of corrections and community supervision and all employees of the office of mental health who deliver services to incarcerated individuals overseen by the department of corrections and community supervision.
Establishes an employee mental health services program for all employees who work for the department of corrections and community supervision and all employees of the office of mental health who deliver services to incarcerated individuals overseen by the department of corrections and community supervision.
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.
Directs the commissioner of corrections and community supervision to promulgate rules and regulations for requirements for vendors who make products available for order and delivery to incarcerated individuals and provide for safe food storage for incarcerated individuals in their cells.
Requires mental health services for incarcerated individuals with mental health issues related to the trauma of incarceration upon reentry and reintegration into society upon release.