Lower chamber approves first reading of amendments to legislation governing penitentiaries

June 30, BPN. The House of Representatives of the Belarusian National Assembly has approved the first reading of the bill “On Amending the Codes on Execution of Sentences,” the lower house’s press office reports.

Interior Minister Ivan Kubrakoŭ presented the bill to the lower chamber.

It reportedly expands “the means of achieving criminal justice goals” through educational, creative, sports, and other activities with a focus on social inclusion and “overcoming” bad personality traits.

The bill provides for the establishment of rehabilitation centers at correctional facilities to help inmates deal with alcohol or drug addiction.

Among other things, it also suggests providing psychological support to both inmates in prisons and upon release.