7-13-701. Definitions; establishment of programs.

(a) As used in this section:

(i) "Department" means the state department of corrections;

(ii) "Compassionate leave" means a temporary release to visit a member of the inmate's immediate family who is in danger of death, or to attend the funeral services or other last rites of a member of the inmate's immediate family;

(iii) "Immediate family member" means a spouse, child, parent, brother or sister.

(b) The department may adopt reasonable rules and regulations which will provide for a reentry furlough program for inmates of any state penal institution. The reentry furlough program shall be designed for inmates who are about to be released on parole or final discharge from imprisonment to aid in their reintegration as productive members of society. The program may provide for escorted or unescorted temporary leaves of absence from the institution for purposes of:

(i) Securing community living arrangements;

(ii) Job interviews with prospective employers;

(iii) Learning or relearning necessary living skills; and

(iv) Other purposes, consistent with the public interest, necessary for the inmate's successful reintegration into society.

(c) The department may adopt reasonable rules and regulations which will establish a furlough program to provide for escorted or unescorted temporary leaves of absence from any state penal institution for purposes of:

(i) Maintaining the prisoner's relationship with immediate family members; and

(ii) Providing for compassionate leaves.