1973 Shea Farm Halfway House opens in Concord becoming the first housing unit to open off the grounds of the state prison. As inmates near their parole dates, they are housed here as they seek work and prepare to return to society. 1976 Auto repair shop is completed. Medical coverage is increased to 24 hours a day. Inmate law library purchased.
Fire damages the roof of the prison recreation building.
Arson was the cause. A 1970 lawsuit results in the Laamen Consent Decree. This requires the State Prison to provide adequate programming opportunities for inmates. While there would be many incarnations of the decree until the 1990's, steps are taken to expand and greatly improve programs. 1979 Calumet Halfway House opens in Manchester.