S5701

Senate Print 5701, sponsored by Sen. Skoufis and listed as Calendar Number 609, was laid aside during floor consideration. The bill would amend the Correction Law. No vote was taken.

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to develop comprehensive discharge and reentry plans for wrongfully convicted individuals before their release. Senate Print 5701 passed 57-2, with only Sens. Borrello and Rhoads voting in opposition. Sponsor Sen. Skoufis said the bill was inspired by Sheldon Thomas, who spent 17 years imprisoned for a murder he did not commit and faced significant challenges reintegrating into society. The legislation mandates DOCCS connect wrongfully convicted individuals with services addressing housing, employment, education, medical care, and social services needs tailored to their circumstances. Sen. Rhoads, while supporting the bill's intent, raised concerns about a potential implementation flaw: the requirement that plans be completed before release conflicts with DOCCS losing legal authority to detain individuals once a wrongful conviction judgment is issued. Rhoads said he hoped the issue would be revisited if the bill becomes law. The bill takes effect 60 days after becoming law.