Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires incarcerated parents to be assigned to facilities that are closest to their children's homes.

Highlights:

• Requires the commissioner to place persons in the custody of the department, whenever practicable, in the correctional institution or facility which is located in closest proximity to the primary place of residence of such person’s minor child or children provided that (Sec. 1): 

• The placement is suitable and appropriate;

• The placement will facilitate increased contact between the person and their child or children;

• The placement is in the best interest of the child or children; and

• The incarcerated parent gives their consent to such placement. 

• Requires the department to develop procedures and criteria for assessing whether a placement is in the best interest of a child or children (Sec. 1).

• Requires the department to submit an annual report regarding the implementation of this section including, but not limited to (Sec. 1):

• The number of incarcerated persons who are parents of minor children;

• The number of incarcerated parents who are placed in a correctional facility in closest proximity to their children;

• The number of incarcerated parents for whom proximal placement was not provided;

• A general explanation of the reasons such placement was not provided; and 

• The number of parents who declined such placement. 

Full Bill Text