POLICIES FOR INMATES LESS THAN 21

House Bill 4966 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Martin Howrylak

Committee:  Criminal Justice

Complete to 11-25-15

SUMMARY:

House Bill 4966 adds a new section to the Corrections Code to do the following:

·       Require the Department of Corrections, by October 1, 2016, to develop policies ensuring that inmates under 21 years of age be offered age-appropriate out-of-cell programming and outdoor exercise at least five days a week.  This applies also to inmates in punitive or administrative segregation.

·       By January 1, 2017, require DOC to develop policies ensuring that inmates under 21 are released from their cells each day.  Inmates in punitive or administrative segregation must be included.  The policies must be based on the guidelines for the use of restraint and seclusion established under Sections 740 and 742 of the Mental Health Code.

(Note:  The bill is part of the legislative package to reform juvenile justice.  Other bills in the package include HB 4947-4965.)

MCL 791.264a, proposed

FISCAL IMPACT:

As introduced, House Bill 4966 would have no fiscal impact on the state or on local units of government.  Depending on the policies that are developed and implemented, there could be significant costs to the state Department of Corrections.

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   Susan Stutzky

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Robin Risko

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.