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House panel hears study proposal on collateral consequences and reentry
Summary
HJ 45 would direct interim study of collateral consequences affecting people returning from incarceration. Proponents described barriers to employment, housing, and licensing; witnesses urged data-driven work with the Office of Reentry to tailor services and identify reforms.
Representative Keri Seegens Crowe opened HJ 45 as a study resolution aimed at cataloging and addressing collateral consequences that hinder people reentering Montana communities after incarceration. "I really despise study bills," she told the committee, then explained why a focused interim study is warranted to examine whether consequences are rehabilitative, punitive, or unfunded mandates.
Proponents described personal and programmatic barriers. Lisa Thomas, a registered nurse and founder of a Montana recovery residence, delivered an emotional account about her daughter and said collateral consequences keep people from completing licensure and finding stable work: "My heart aches at the barriers our current system has placed in the way of second chances," she said. Tara Williamson, executive director of Step Inc., urged the committee to gather real data on where people fall through gaps in housing, treatment, and employment.
Representatives and Department of Corrections officials discussed the limits of current data: DOC told the committee it cannot readily track outcomes after expungement because personal identifiers are removed from records. Witnesses argued that an interim study could assemble stakeholder input (judges, DOC, parole officers, housing providers) and pilot targeted interventions.
HJ 45 supporters pointed to scale and cost: testimony cited Montanas adult prison population (2,953 as of Jan. 16, 2025) and an average per-inmate cost of roughly $64,000 in 2023, arguing that better reentry systems could reduce recidivism and costs. The committee did not adopt policy changes during the hearing; supporters asked for a "due pass" to allow interim work with the Office of Reentry and stakeholders.
