§1199.22. Purpose; authorization of Post-Conviction Veterans Mentor Program
A. The Legislature of Louisiana recognizes that there is a critical need for criminal
justice system programs to assist veterans in order to reduce the incidence of recidivism. As
with the Veterans Court probation program, there is also a need to assist veterans who have
been convicted of offenses. Those veterans who are eligible and willing to participate in the
program could serve as mentors for veterans participating in the Veterans Court probation
program. Therefore, it is the intent of the Legislature of Louisiana to create an opportunity
for veterans convicted of certain offenses to return to society and be successful in re-entry
into the workplace. The goal of the Post-Conviction Veterans Mentor Program is to reduce
recidivism among veterans and to provide those who have served this country with the
assistance that they need and deserve.
B. The secretary of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections is authorized
to establish a Post-Conviction Veterans Mentor Program for incarcerated veterans,
hereinafter referred to as "program". The department shall adopt regulations and guidelines
as it considers necessary for the administration and implementation of this program. The
provisions of this Part shall be implemented only to the extent that funds are available within
the department for this purpose and to the extent that is consistent with available resources.
Acts 2018, No. 273, §1; Acts 2020, No. 228, §1.