SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5676

BYSenators Smitherman and Bailey

Revising conditions of prisoners' furloughs.

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 16, 1987

Senate Staff:Jean Soliz (786-7755)

AS OF FEBRUARY 13, 1987

BACKGROUND:

Minimum security status prisoners are entitled to furloughs in specified situations, such as death or critical illness of a family member, or to obtain medical care not available in a corrections health care facility.  They may also use furlough to seek employment or training opportunities or to visit their families, while in the work release component of their confinement.  There is concern regarding the potential for abuse when offenders are released into the communities for these purposes.

SUMMARY:

The definition of "furlough" includes the requirement that a law enforcement or corrections official accompany the eligible prisoner while on furlough.

Fiscal Note:      requested