SB 6009-S - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 2ND SUB)

     Finds persuasive national statistics that demonstrate that incarcerated mothers who develop strong parenting skills and bond with their children are less likely to reoffend.

     Finds that the residential parenting program at the women's correctional center protects public safety and promotes outcomes that are socially and fiscally responsible by reducing recidivism and reducing the likelihood that a child of an incarcerated mother will become at-risk for committing criminal offenses as a juvenile or adult.

     Directs the department to maintain a residential parenting program at its major correctional institutions for women to allow those inmates who give birth while incarcerated, and who meet eligibility requirements, to keep their infants with them during their incarceration.  The program shall provide an appropriate living situation for the infants, promote positive parenting skills, and facilitate transition services back into the community.

     Requires the department to maintain a separate financial account for infant participants in the residential parenting program.

     Declares that funds in the infant's account may be used only for the infant's needs and expenses and equipment needed for proper infant care.  Such funds may not be used to pay for maternal expenses and may not be applied to the mother's legal financial obligations.