RS 1199.22 - Purpose; authorization of Post-Conviction Veterans Mentor Program
A. The Legislature of Louisiana recognizes that there is a critical need for criminal justice system programs to assist veterans in order to reduce the incidence of recidivism. As with the Veterans Court probation program, there is also a need to assist veterans who have been convicted of offenses. Those veterans who are eligible and willing to participate in the program could serve as mentors for veterans participating in the Veterans Court probation program. Therefore, it is the intent of the Legislature of Louisiana to create an opportunity for veterans convicted of certain offenses to return to society and be successful in re-entry into the workplace. The goal of the Post-Conviction Veterans Mentor Program is to reduce recidivism among veterans and to provide those who have served this country with the assistance that they need and deserve.
B. The secretary of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections is authorized to establish a Post-Conviction Veterans Mentor Program for incarcerated veterans, hereinafter referred to as "program". The department shall adopt regulations and guidelines as it considers necessary for the administration and implementation of this program. The provisions of this Part shall be implemented only to the extent that funds are available within the department for this purpose and to the extent that is consistent with available resources.
Acts 2018, No. 273, §1; Acts 2020, No. 228, §1.