Programs to help former prisoners reenter the community

Subject to funding by the legislature, the department of corrections and rehabilitation shall enhance the State's comprehensive offender reentry system by developing model programs designed to reduce recidivism and promote successful reentry into the community. Components of the model programs shall include but are not limited to: (1) Highly skilled staff who are experienced in working with offender reentry programs; (2) Individualized case management and a full continuum of care to ensure successful reentry; (3) Life skills development workshops, including budgeting, money management, nutrition, and exercise; development of self-determination through education; employment training; special education for the learning disabled; social, cognitive, communication, and life skills training; and appropriate treatment programs, including substance abuse and mental health treatment; (4) Parenting and relationship building classes. The department shall institute policies that support family cohesion and family participation in offenders' transition to the community, and, where possible, provide geographical proximity of offenders to their children and families; and (5) Ongoing attention to building support for offenders from communities, community agencies, and organizations. [L Sp 2007, c 8, pt of §2 ; am L 2022, c 278, §29]