Legislature(2017 - 2018)
2018-02-02 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2018-02-02 Senate Journal Page 1905 SB 172 SENATE BILL NO. 172 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to computer use by prisoners; and relating to an exemption from the State Procurement Code for contracts for rehabilitation and reentry services." was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Corrections 2018-02-02 Senate Journal Page 1906 Governor's transmittal letter dated January 31: Dear President Kelly, Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to rehabilitation and reentry services for prisoners. This bill would further the State's goal of successful rehabilitation of prisoners by increasing access to reentry and rehabilitation services both online and in their home towns. First, the bill would allow incarcerated persons to use computers to access reentry services, allowing them to apply for medical assistance, search for housing, and other services they will need post-incarceration. Second, the bill would authorize the Commissioner of the Department of Corrections to authorize contracts for rehabilitation services without going through the procurement code. In many instances, released prisoners wish to return to their home communities to be with family and friends, have a support system, and be in a familiar setting. If that home community lacks established rehabilitation services, the released prisoner must decide between receiving services and living in the community most likely to assist in the person's reentry to society. By exempting the Commissioner from the procurement code for reentry and rehabilitation services, a person would be able to receive needed services in the community most conducive to the person's recovery. For a Safer Alaska, I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Bill Walker Governor