HB1931

House Bill 1931 establishes the 'Recidivism Reduction System' within the Arkansas Department of Corrections to lower recidivism rates by standardizing reentry preparation starting on the first day of incarceration. The system mandates that all inmates undergo a validated risk and needs assessment upon intake to create an individualized case plan, which directs them toward specific evidence-based programs, educational opportunities, and vocational training. The bill introduces an incentive-based framework, rewarding inmates for participation and progress with privileges like extended visitation or commissary access, while implementing disincentives for non-compliance. It also requires the creation of a Deputy Director of Reentry and facility-level reentry coordinators to oversee transition planning, including post-release housing and employment support. Furthermore, the legislation authorizes the Department to form partnerships with nonprofits, private entities, and educational institutions to expand program offerings without necessarily increasing the state budget. The bill explicitly excludes certain inmates, such as those on death row or those without legal immigration status, from participating in educational programming.