Representative Dianne Hart (D-Tampa) today refiled several bills to reform Florida’s outdated criminal justice system. HB 235 Criminal Rehabilitation allows for first time non-violent offenders to gain up to 85% gain time for their completion of academic and self-bettering courses while incarcerated. HB 233Treatment of Inmates establishes a bill of rights for those incarcerated and requires the Department of Corrections to make all individuals aware of their rights upon their incarceration. HB 237 Ava’s Law would give judges the discretion to pregnant woman time to safely give birth and bond with their child before beginning their prison sentence. This bill was passed by the House last year, but did not move in the Senate.
Representative Dianne Hart (D- Tampa) issued the following statement:
“I have refiled these important bills because I believe them to be solutions to many of the issues that are plaguing our correctional system. These bills were drafted with the input of those formerly and currently incarcerated and their families. Over the years I have worked with the Department of Corrections and other state agencies to create a product that prioritizes public safety and justice. Allowing individuals to be released with skills to be productive members of society while freeing up resources for our officers to be able to work more effectively. It is my hope that my colleagues in the Legislature will join me in advocating for better conditions not only for those incarcerated but for our officers as well.”
