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HP 1173 would let Corrections release inmates for approved post‑secondary study under existing vetting
Summary
Representative Buzz Sher said HP 1173 allows the corrections commissioner to release inmates to attend approved post‑secondary programs and classes — similar to existing work‑release authority — subject to standard vetting and institutional checks.
Representative Buzz Sher introduced HP 1173 as a narrow update permitting the Commissioner of Corrections to temporarily release inmates to attend approved post‑secondary education programs, with the same vetting used for work release and no additional costs to the state.
Sher said the bill restores the original intent after a prior session where the measure was "hijacked" with an unrelated amendment; the Department of Corrections previously testified in favor of the concept.
Committee members asked clarifying questions about whether out‑of‑state programs were contemplated; Sher said the statute does not explicitly limit in‑state attendance but department practice makes out‑of‑state approval rare. No formal votes were recorded; the sponsor said he would accept questions and further drafting as needed.
