HB509 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Rod Scott

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Work release, to create a new classification exception to allow certain inmates to be eligible to participate in work release programs, Sec. 14-8-2 am'd.

Summary

HB 509 creates a new classification exception to allow certain inmates to qualify for work release if they meet specific requirements.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill amends the work release rules to add a new eligibility pathway. Inmates could participate in paid work release if they have completed 85% of their sentence, finished their course of study with certification, obtained an eligibility certification from their school, and are seeking employment in that field. Exclusions apply to inmates sentenced to life without parole, sex offenders, and violent offenders. The Department of Corrections would set rules and designate facilities to implement the program.

Who It Affects

• Inmates who meet the four eligibility criteria (85% of sentence completed, course completed with certification, school certification/eligibility, and job-seeking in the field)
• Inmates who are excluded (those sentenced to life without parole, sex offenders, violent offenders)
• Department of Corrections and state prison facilities responsible for administering and hosting work release programs

Key Provisions

• Creates a new classification exception to make more inmates eligible for work release
• Eligibility criteria: (1) 85% of sentence completed; (2) completion of course of study and certification received; (3) certification of eligibility by completion of program or certification by the school president; (4) actively seeking employment in the certified field
• Excludes inmates sentenced to life without parole, sex offenders, and violent offenders from eligibility
• Authorizes the Department/board to adopt regulations and designate facilities to implement and regulate work release and confinement extension

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Work Release