Idaho has passed House Bill 654, which enhances the furlough program managed by the State Board of Correction, specifically focusing on the employment of prisoners with private employers.
Key aspects of the amendment facilitate the continuation or initiation of employment for prisoners, ensuring they receive the same wages and benefits as their non-incarcerated counterparts. A prisoner who secures employment with a private employer must receive the same salary range offered to other similarly situated employees based on experience, education, and other qualifications. Additionally, an employed prisoner must have available to him all the benefits offered to other similarly situated employees, such as health care benefits, paid leave, flexible spending accounts, and life insurance.
The law goes into effect on July 1, 2024.
