HB 2303: Relating to inmate release from the custody of the department of corrections
Sponsor: Philip Oehlerking
WATCH / MIXED
Pending proof of necessity + guardrail amendments
This bill requires the Missouri Department of Corrections (DOC) to help people leaving prison for felony sentences re-enter society by ensuring they leave custody with practical employment-related documents and a current state-issued ID. It directs DOC to coordinate with the Department of Revenue (DOR) to start ID paperwork up to nine months before release.
What Does This Bill Do?
- Identification Coordination: DOC and DOR must coordinate to provide state-issued IDs to eligible inmates up to nine months prior to release.
- Employment Documentation: DOC must provide inmates with training records, resumes, and proof of practice interviews to support job readiness.
- Occupational Licensing: Requires DOC to notify inmates of their eligibility for specific occupational licenses or certifications.
Constitutional or Critical Context
While the bill aims to reduce recidivism by removing barriers to work, Act for Missouri questions if these services are already being performed under current administrative authority. Under a limited-government standard, new mandates should only be adopted if there is a documented failure or inconsistency in existing practices.
Red Flags & Recommended Amendments
Necessity Not Demonstrated
It is unclear if DOC/DOR already have the authority to perform these tasks, making the bill potentially duplicative government expansion.
Inmate Trust Fund Use
The bill allows the use of private inmate trust funds for ID fees without explicitly requiring written consent or opt-in standards.
Act for Missouri Recommendation:
Act for Missouri is watching this bill. While the goal of removing barriers to work is beneficial, we do not support new mandates unless they are proven necessary and include guardrails like fee caps, explicit trust fund consent, and reporting requirements.