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Bill

Bill

S 8061

Provides for mental health counseling for correction officers and civilian staff in correctional facilities

2025 Regular Session Introduced by James Skoufis

Bill S 8061 ensures mental health counseling for correction officers and civilian staff, promoting their well-being in high-stress environments of correctional facilities.

REFERRED TO CRIME VICTIMS, CRIME AND CORRECTION
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Bill Summary · S 8061

Summary of Bill S 8061

Title: Provides for mental health counseling for correction officers and civilian staff in correctional facilities
Bill Number: S 8061
Status: Referred to Crime Victims, Crime and Correction
Introduced: May 15, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 8061 aims to address the mental health needs of correction officers and civilian staff working in correctional facilities. Recognizing the high-stress environment and potential trauma associated with working in corrections, the bill seeks to provide essential mental health counseling services to support the well-being of these employees.

Key Provisions

  • Mental Health Counseling Services: The bill mandates the establishment of mental health counseling programs specifically designed for correction officers and civilian staff. This includes access to professional counseling services to help manage stress, trauma, and other mental health issues.

  • Implementation Framework: The bill outlines a framework for how these counseling services will be implemented within correctional facilities, ensuring that staff can access support without stigma or barriers.

  • Funding Considerations: While specific funding amounts are not detailed in the bill, it is implied that resources will be allocated to support the mental health initiatives outlined.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Correction Officers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are correction officers who face daily challenges and stressors in their roles, which can lead to mental health issues.

  • Civilian Staff: In addition to correction officers, civilian staff working in correctional facilities will also have access to these mental health services, recognizing their integral role in the correctional system.

  • Correctional Facilities: The bill will impact the operational protocols of correctional facilities, as they will need to integrate these mental health services into their existing frameworks.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of May 15, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction for further consideration.

  • Related Legislation: Bill S 8061 has a companion bill, A 8027, which may provide additional context or support for similar initiatives in the legislative process.

Conclusion

Bill S 8061 represents a significant step towards improving the mental health support available to those working in correctional facilities. By providing structured counseling services, the bill aims to enhance the overall well-being of correction officers and civilian staff, ultimately contributing to a healthier work environment within the corrections system.

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

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