Increases access to substance abuse programming for incarcerated individuals whose first language is not English

This bill requires correctional facilities to improve substance abuse programs for inmates who do not speak English as their first language. To achieve this, the commissioner of corrections must implement measures such as hiring bilingual counselors, translating program materials, and creating targeted initiatives for non-English speakers. The law gives the commissioner flexibility to choose specific strategies after consulting with addiction services experts. These changes are designed to ensure that language barriers do not prevent incarcerated individuals from accessing and completing necessary treatment.