This bill creates the women's offender program within the Department of Corrections. Women offenders under the program will be provided a continuum of supervision strategies and program services for female probationers, prisoners, and parolees. The bill also establishes an advisory committee of women's programs. It will be the duty of the advisory committee to address the needs of women in the criminal justice system. No impact on state funds.
Supporters say that the bill is needed to help meet the needs of incarcerated women.
The current offender classifications are basically set up for men. This classification is needed to make sure that women can get the proper services and treatment while in the custody of the department. It is necessary to do this statutorily because all classifications within the department are set up by statute. There was no opposition voiced to the committee.