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Bill

A 495

Relates to conditional release for eligible offenders who complete post-secondary degrees or programs

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Khaleel Anderson and 10 co-sponsors

Bill A 495 allows eligible offenders to gain conditional release after completing post-secondary education, promoting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates.

REFERRED TO CORRECTION
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 495

Summary of Bill A 495

Bill Number: A 495
Title: Relates to conditional release for eligible offenders who complete post-secondary degrees or programs
Status: Referred to Correction
Introduced: January 08, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 495 aims to provide a pathway for eligible offenders to achieve conditional release from incarceration upon the successful completion of post-secondary degrees or educational programs. The intent of the bill is to encourage rehabilitation and reintegration into society by promoting education as a means of reducing recidivism.

Key Provisions

  • Eligibility Criteria: The bill outlines specific criteria that offenders must meet to qualify for conditional release. This includes:

    • Completion of a post-secondary degree or an accredited educational program.
    • Compliance with any additional requirements set forth by the correctional facility or governing body.

  • Conditional Release Mechanism: The bill establishes a framework for how conditional release will be granted, including:

    • A review process to assess the offender's educational achievements and behavior while incarcerated.
    • Guidelines for the terms of conditional release, which may include supervision or participation in community service.

  • Support Services: The bill may also provide for support services to assist released individuals in their transition back into society, including job placement assistance and counseling.

Impact

  • Offenders: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be eligible offenders who pursue and complete higher education while incarcerated. This could lead to reduced sentences and improved opportunities for successful reintegration into society.

  • Correctional Facilities: The bill may require correctional facilities to implement new educational programs and support systems, potentially impacting their operational procedures and resource allocation.

  • Society: By promoting education as a means of rehabilitation, the bill aims to reduce recidivism rates, ultimately benefiting public safety and community well-being.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Process: As of January 8, 2025, Bill A 495 has been referred to the Correction Committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent hearings or votes has not yet been established.

  • Related Legislation: The bill is related to prior-session Bill A 4888 and has a companion bill, S 2508, which may provide additional context or support for its provisions.

Conclusion

Bill A 495 represents a significant step towards integrating education into the correctional system as a means of fostering rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. By providing conditional release opportunities for offenders who complete post-secondary education, the bill seeks to create a more effective and humane correctional environment.

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

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