§15A-4A-1. Purpose of article and legislative findings.

(a) The purpose of this article is to establish an expanded required work release pilot program in no more than five locations in this state.

(b) The Legislature finds that the primary reasons for requiring participation in a work release program are to increase public protection while aiding the transition of the offender back into the community where he or she will be going with or without work release program participation. Participating in work release may reduce the likelihood of recidivism by gradually reintroducing an offender to the community while providing security, structure, and supervision and providing necessary services.

(c) The Legislature further finds that participation in a work release program provides an transitional environment for offenders nearing the end of their sentences while maintaining structure, supervision, offender accountability, improved program opportunities, employment counseling and placement, substance abuse, and life skills training.