SB 64

Abstract

Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. Provides that a committed person who: (1) is at least 60 years of age; (2) has served at least 25 consecutive years of imprisonment in a facility or institution of the Department of Corrections; and (3) is not serving a sentence for a crime of violence as defined in the Crime Victims Compensation Act may petition the Department for participation in the Pathway to Community Program. Provides that before a participant is selected for the Program, the petitioner shall successfully complete an atonement and restorative justice program prepared by the Department. Following completion of this program of atonement and restorative justice, the Department shall make an exhaustive effort to find and notify family members of the victim of the petitioner's offense and to afford them the opportunity to participate in the Department's final selection process for the Pathway to Community Program. Provides that the Department shall select 50 participants for the Program from petitions submitted to it by the Department. Provides that up to $1,000 of trauma-informed victim services or trauma-certified professional therapy shall be provided by the Department to family members of the victim of the petitioner's offense. Insurance policies of the family members of the victim of the petitioner's offense or family members financial resources shall first be used to pay the costs of these services or therapy. Optional participation by family members of the victim of petitioner's offense shall be provided by the Department at no cost to the family members of the victim. Makes other changes.