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In a move to address the high rates of recidivism in the state, Arizona legislators have proposed changes to the criminal laws that aim to provide more opportunities for rehabilitation and support for individuals who have been convicted of crimes. The proposed changes come after a recent study found that nearly 60% of individuals released from Arizona prisons are re-arrested within three years.One of the key changes outlined in the proposed legislation is the expansion of diversion programs for non-violent offenders. These programs would allow individuals to participate in rehabilitative services, such as drug treatment or job training, instead of serving time in prison. Proponents of the legislation argue that these programs have been successful in reducing recidivism rates in other states and could have a similar impact in Arizona.Additionally, the proposed legislation includes measures to increase access to mental health services for individuals involved in the criminal justice system. This would include providing more funding for mental health treatment programs in prisons and creating partnerships with community mental health providers to support individuals upon their release.Lawmakers are also considering changes to sentencing guidelines with the goal of reducing the number of individuals serving lengthy prison terms for non-violent offenses. This would include revising mandatory minimum sentencing laws and providing judges with more discretion in sentencing decisions.Critics of the proposed changes argue that they could lead to an increase in crime rates and undermine public safety. However, supporters maintain that the current system is not effectively addressing the root causes of criminal behavior and that these changes are necessary to break the cycle of recidivism.The proposed legislation is set to be debated in the upcoming legislative session, with lawmakers hopeful that it will garner bipartisan support. If passed, the changes could have a significant impact on the criminal justice system in Arizona and lead to a more rehabilitative approach to addressing crime in the state.