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Bill

Bill

S 5087

Requires the department of corrections and community supervision to create a family reunion program

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nathalia Fernández and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 5087 establishes a Family Reunion Program to help incarcerated individuals maintain family ties, promoting emotional support and aiding successful reintegration.

REFERRED TO CRIME VICTIMS, CRIME AND CORRECTION
1
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 5087

Summary of Bill S 5087

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 5087
  • Title: Requires the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to Create a Family Reunion Program
  • Status: Referred to Crime Victims, Crime and Correction
  • Introduced On: February 18, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 5087 is to establish a Family Reunion Program within the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). This initiative aims to facilitate and promote family connections for individuals who are incarcerated, recognizing the importance of maintaining familial relationships for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Key Provisions

  • Creation of the Program: The bill mandates the DOCCS to develop and implement a structured Family Reunion Program.
  • Program Components: While specific details on the components of the program are not outlined in the bill text, it is expected to include:
    • Opportunities for incarcerated individuals to meet with family members in a supportive environment.
    • Activities designed to strengthen family bonds and improve communication.
    • Resources for families to navigate the challenges of having a loved one in the correctional system.

Impact

  • Incarcerated Individuals: The bill is intended to benefit those currently incarcerated by providing them with opportunities to maintain and strengthen their family ties, which can be crucial for emotional support and successful reintegration post-release.
  • Families of Incarcerated Individuals: Families will have structured opportunities to engage with their loved ones, potentially reducing the emotional strain associated with incarceration.
  • Community and Society: By fostering stronger family connections, the program may contribute to lower recidivism rates and promote public safety through improved rehabilitation outcomes.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Action: As of February 18, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is associated with several prior-session bills (S 5588, S 4519, S 4315) and has a companion bill in the Assembly (A 3847), indicating ongoing legislative interest in family support initiatives within the correctional system.

Conclusion

Bill S 5087 represents a significant step towards enhancing the support systems for incarcerated individuals and their families. By establishing a Family Reunion Program, the legislation aims to address the emotional and social challenges faced by those affected by incarceration, ultimately contributing to more effective rehabilitation and community reintegration.

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

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