Florida bill creates conditional prison release pilot program for first time offenders

MIAMI – Rep. Alina Garcia, R-Miami, Wednesday filed a bill that creates a conditional release pilot program for first time prisoners.

Under HB 745, individuals serving 20 years or more in a state correctional facility may be granted special release under certain conditions. The law would require no disciplinary reports by the inmate over the past five years and no other felony convictions for eligibility.

Garcia described the bill to Florida’s Voice as a “second chance” program for inmates.

An inmate, if qualified, will have a provisional release date of 90 days following 20 years of confinement, according to the bill.

The release program would not apply to sexual predators or those convicted of felony murder.

Through the legislation, released inmates are under house confinement, also known as house arrest, for two years. The individual, however, is allowed to leave for work, medical care, or other essential activities as approved by the commission.

While having certain freedoms, an inmate still may be electronically monitored under house confinement. They also may be eligible, under board approval, for less restrictive release if no violations occur.

A report to the commission on the status of the program is to be provided to the governor by Jan. 2, 2027. Details also are to be sent to the Senate president and House speaker by the effective date.

Per review, the program will be accessed based on an inmates integration into society and their ability to complete house arrest.

The program would also be terminated by June 30, 2027 unless reviewed or saved from repeal.

Moreover, any inmate currently in the system will be allowed to complete the program under the specified terms.

If passed, the law would go into effect July 1, 2024.