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HB 2171

Establishes the "Motivational Boot Camp Incarceration Program" in the department of corrections and allows certain persons to be sentenced to the Program

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Costlow and 1 co-sponsor

Missouri creates alternative boot camp sentencing program for eligible offenders to reduce incarceration costs and recidivism through intensive structured discipline.

HCS Reported Do Pass (H) - AYES: 10 NOES: 2 PRESENT: 1
#corrections #departmentof #courts #crimesandpunishment #criminalprocedure #prisonsandjails
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Bill Summary · HB 2171

Legislative bill overview

HB 2171 establishes a "Motivational Boot Camp Incarceration Program" within Missouri's Department of Corrections as an alternative sentencing option for certain offenders. The program would allow judges to sentence eligible individuals to this boot camp-style program instead of traditional incarceration, with the goal of using intensive discipline and structured activities to reduce recidivism.

Why is this important

Boot camp programs aim to reduce incarceration costs while potentially lowering recidivism rates for lower-risk offenders. This addresses ongoing concerns about prison overcrowding and the effectiveness of traditional incarceration, while giving judges another sentencing tool for appropriate candidates.

Potential points of contention

  • Eligibility criteria and fairness: The bill's specifics on who qualifies for the program versus traditional sentencing are critical—vague standards could lead to disparate application across demographics or judicial districts
  • Effectiveness evidence: Boot camp programs have shown mixed results nationally; Missouri would need strong evaluation mechanisms to determine if this actually reduces recidivism or merely shifts costs
  • Voluntary participation and civil rights: Questions exist about whether participation is truly voluntary, what happens to those who don't complete the program, and whether boot camp conditions meet constitutional standards

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

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