§353-6.5  Gender-responsive, community-based programs for women offenders.  The department of corrections and rehabilitation shall develop and make available gender-responsive, community-based programs, including a community-based work furlough program, for women offenders by providing women offenders the appropriate range of opportunities to ensure that their needs are met.  Program models designed to address the needs of women offenders shall include but are not limited to:

     (1)  Appropriate treatment, including substance abuse and mental health treatment;

     (2)  Individualized case management to help women offenders set and achieve goals;

     (3)  Life skills development workshops, including budgeting, money management, nutrition, and exercise;

     (4)  Development of self-determination through education; employment training; community-based work furlough programs; special education for the learning disabled; and social, cognitive, communication, and life skills training;

     (5)  Family-focused programming, including issues relating to pregnancy and single parenthood;

     (6)  Peer support and the development of peer networks;

     (7)  Transitional support for women offenders and their families to promote successful reentry into their families and communities;

     (8)  Highly skilled staff experienced in working with women offenders and their concerns;

     (9)  Formal recognition of participant achievement;

    (10)  Ongoing attention to building community-based support;

    (11)  Assistance for women offenders who need to develop a marketable job skill and a career plan;

    (12)  Geographical proximity to children and family; and

    (13)  The goal of providing a gender-responsive continuum of care. [L 2006, c 258, §4; am L 2022, c 245, §2 and c 278, §29]

Cross References

  Parity for female offenders, see chapter 367D.