[§353-6.5]  Gender-responsive,community-based programs for female offenders.  Subject to funding by thelegislature, the department of public safety shall develop and make availablegender-responsive, community-based programs for female offenders by providingfemale offenders the appropriate range of opportunities to ensure that theirneeds are met.  Program models designed to address female offender needs shallinclude but are not limited to:

(1)  Appropriate treatment, including substance abuseand mental health treatment;

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

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

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

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

(6)  Peer support and the development of peernetworks;

(7)  Transitional support for female offenders andtheir families to promote successful reentry into their families andcommunities;

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

(9)  Formal recognition of participant achievement;

(10)  Ongoing attention to building community-basedsupport;

(11)  Assistance for female offenders who need todevelop a marketable job skill and a career plan;

(12)  Geographical proximity to children and family;and

(13)  The goal of providing a gender-responsivecontinuum of care. [L 2006, c 258, §4]

 

Cross References

 

  Parity for female offenders, see chapter 367D.