Senate Bill 1310 helps combat recidivism reduction.

           Governor Ducey in Arizona has openly expressed support to combat recidivism within the Department of Corrections. And SB 1310 is gaining momentum in the Arizona Senate. It creates a incentive
for Arizona Inmates to seek self improvement while incarcerated and earn early release credits. Now this actually makes a lot of sense and gives an inmate the edge. Although some believe the bill does not go far enough because it only effects certain inmates with certain charges. The bill only applies to those convicted with possession of a narcotic drug , dangerous drug , marijuana or drug paraphernalia. It does not apply to those who are charged with manufacture of a drug or transportation of a drug for sale. And those who are convicted of a violent or serious offense.
          This bill receives support when recent HB 2270 got no where within the House of Representatives. Some say that bill was to large and encompassing that currently did not have support. Arizona's policy for early release has long been needing change. Many inmates do attempt to reverse the evil cycle of recidivism by enrolling in classes during incarceration and change their lives. But there also is a lot of discouragement within the system. This bill creates a incentive and motivation for the inmates to return to society and make their lives better.
           Now for the alarming results of 2018. 95% of Arizona inmates are violent or repeat offenders. Only 5% are non- violent , first time offenders. http://azsentencing.org/ 
http://azsentencing.org/images/docs/Prisoners-in-Arizona---A-2017-Update-on-Selected-Topics-2017.pdf These stats are from 2017. The pdf file really goes in depth. Many would criticize such a report and study but it creates a bleak and honest picture.
           We will continue to follow this bill as it advances.