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HB 1931

TO CREATE THE RECIDIVISM REDUCTION SYSTEM WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Howard Beaty and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1931 creates a Recidivism Reduction System in Arkansas, providing tailored support for inmates to lower reoffending rates and save taxpayer dollars.

Notification that HB1931 is now Act 694
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1931

Summary of House Bill 1931: Recidivism Reduction System

Overview

House Bill 1931, now known as Act 694, was introduced on March 31, 2025, with the primary aim of establishing a Recidivism Reduction System within the Arkansas Department of Corrections. The bill seeks to address high recidivism rates and their associated costs by implementing evidence-based programs and services designed to support inmates during and after their incarceration.

Purpose and Intent

The bill is grounded in the legislative findings that:
- Recidivism rates are influenced by both inmate behavior and the correctional system's response during incarceration.
- The recidivism rate for the Department of Corrections was reported at 48.3% for the 2019 cohort, leading to projected annual costs exceeding $140 million for reincarceration.

The intent is to:
- Begin reentry preparation from the first day of incarceration.
- Develop coordinated programs that enhance public safety and reduce recidivism.

Key Provisions

Establishment of the Recidivism Reduction System

  • A new subchapter (12-29-901) is added to the Arkansas Code, creating the Recidivism Reduction System at the cabinet level.
  • The Secretary of the Department of Corrections is tasked with developing and implementing this system.

Components of the System

  1. Validated Risk and Needs Assessment:
    • Conducted during inmate intake to identify individual risks and needs.
  2. Individualized Case Plans:
    • Each inmate will have a tailored case plan that outlines programs and activities aimed at reducing recidivism.
  3. Periodic Reassessment:
    • Inmates' risks will be reassessed regularly to adjust their case plans as needed.
  4. Evidence-Based Programming:
    • The system will include a variety of programs and activities designed to address the factors leading to recidivism.
  5. Incentives and Disincentives:
    • Mechanisms will be incorporated to encourage inmate participation in their case plans.

Programming Guidelines

  • The system will provide guidance on the types and amounts of programs assigned to inmates based on their assessed risk levels.
  • A catalog of available programs will be published annually, detailing the nature of each program, its delivery method, and the qualifications of instructors.

Impact

Who Will Be Affected

  • Inmates: The primary beneficiaries will be inmates within the Arkansas Department of Corrections, who will receive tailored support aimed at reducing their likelihood of reoffending.
  • Taxpayers: The bill aims to reduce the financial burden of reincarceration on the state, potentially saving millions in taxpayer dollars.
  • Public Safety: The broader community may benefit from reduced crime rates as recidivism decreases.

Procedural Timeline

  • April 10, 2025: The bill passed through the House and Senate, with an emergency clause adopted to expedite implementation.
  • April 16, 2025: The bill was officially enacted as Act 694.

Conclusion

House Bill 1931 represents a significant legislative effort to reform the correctional system in Arkansas by focusing on recidivism reduction through structured programming and individualized support for inmates. The establishment of the Recidivism Reduction System is expected to enhance public safety and reduce the financial impact of high recidivism rates on the state.

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

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