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HB 399

CRIMINAL/PROCEDURE: Provides relative to temporary release of inmates for limited purposes (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tehmi Chassion and 1 co-sponsor

HB 399 creates temporary release procedures for Louisiana inmates for limited purposes, balancing potential cost savings and reintegration benefits against public safety oversight requirements.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 399

Legislative bill overview

HB 399 establishes a framework allowing Louisiana to temporarily release certain inmates for specific, limited purposes during their incarceration. The bill creates procedures and conditions under which eligible prisoners may leave custody on a temporary basis, presumably for activities like medical treatment, family emergencies, or work-related programs, before returning to complete their sentences.

Why is this important

Temporary release programs can reduce incarceration costs, allow inmates to maintain family connections and employment prospects, and facilitate reintegration. However, they also raise public safety concerns and require careful management to ensure compliance and prevent abuse of the temporary release privilege.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns – Opponents may worry about inmates absconding or committing crimes while temporarily released, requiring robust monitoring systems and enforcement mechanisms
  • Eligibility criteria – Debate likely centers on which inmates qualify (violent vs. non-violent offenders, sentence length, behavior records) and who decides
  • Implementation costs – Supervision, monitoring technology, and administrative overhead could offset savings, with unclear fiscal impact noted in the bill's fiscal note reference

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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