8900-1100 Re-Entry Programs

For re-entry programs at the department of correction that are intended to reduce recidivism rates; provided, that said programs shall be in addition to such provided in fiscal year 2022; provided further, that not later than January 13, 2023, the department shall report to the house and senate committees on ways and means on re-entry programming at the department; provided further, that said report shall include information on the type of programs provided and the recidivism rate of the offenders who successfully completed said programs; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended for the Boston Housing Authority for the Stable Housing and Reintegration Pilot Program, SHARPP, partnership to provide reentry housing and support services for formerly incarcerated individuals and their families; provided further, that not less than $80,000 shall be expended for the department of correction to cover costs associated with coordinating and supporting partnerships with higher education institutions that provide post-secondary education programs in state prisons; provided further, that not less than $3,600,000 shall be expended for two new after incarceration support centers to serve those coming out of department of corrections facilities; provided further, that said support centers shall be administered by the department of public health for the purposes of lessening recidivism and increasing public safety by providing comprehensive reentry services^[2.1]; provided further, that said support centers can include adult education for HiSET tests and ESOL, job readiness, job placement, job training, providing or connecting to mental health services, connecting to drug treatment programs, providing or assisting in finding affordable housing; and provided further, that not less than $600,000 of the $3,600,000 allocated to fund said support centers shall be expended for a professional evaluation of the different programs' effectiveness and recommendations on any improvements needed and said evaluation shall be sent to the house and senate committees on ways and means not later than March 10, 2023