SB 18-238

Senate Bill 18-238, also known as the County Jail Prisoner Labor bill, allows county sheriffs more flexibility in assigning jail inmates to work both inside and outside of the jail. This includes allowing inmates who have not yet been convicted but are awaiting trial (known as pretrial detainees) to participate in work programs while they are confined. The bill has been signed into law, meaning it is now official policy that county sheriffs can implement these changes immediately.

Official Summary

Under current law, prisoners convicted of an offense and sentenced to county jail are required to work inside the jail. When no work is available inside the jail, convicted and sentenced prisoners are required to work outside the jail. The bill permits county sheriffs to allow prisoners to work outside of jail at any time, including on any public property. The bill permits a person who is confined in a county jail, but who has not been convicted and sentenced, to work while confined in the county jail. (Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.) Read More

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