Executive Committee Vice Chair
The 2025 Annual Business Meeting brought the Compact community together in beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a week of collaboration, discussion, and connection. It was an honor for Puerto Rico to host Commissioners, Deputy Compact Administrators, Ex Officio members, and partners from across the country to share the island’s culture, hospitality, and commitment to the work of ICAOS.
Throughout the week, members conducted the official business of the Commission, including approving the FY27 budget and voting on 20 proposed rule amendments, 19 of which were adopted. Attendees also participated in breakout sessions, town hall discussions, and presentations addressing emerging issues, operational challenges, and evolving practices in community supervision.
One of the most anticipated discussions centered on the proposed violation response framework presented by the RNR Workgroup and the Center for Effective Public Policy. The framework introduces a research-informed approach to violation and retaking decisions by evaluating violation severity, stability factors, and risk level to support fair, consistent, and transparent decision-making under the Compact. The discussion reflected the Commission’s continued commitment to improving outcomes and aligning practices with evidence-based supervision principles.
Attendees also heard from Marie Cruz Brownell, Chief of the Inmate Classification Office with the Puerto Rico Department of Corrections, who shared insight into how community supervision is managed across the island. Commissioners elected new Region Chairs who will guide communication, collaboration, and implementation efforts within their regions over the next term.
The meeting concluded with recognition of outstanding leadership and service through the presentation of the Commission’s annual awards and recognition:
Commissioner of North Dakota
Deputy Compact Administrator of Iowa
Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, Office of Victim Services
Massachusetts Compact Staff
Beyond the formal agenda, the Annual Business Meeting once again highlighted the value of bringing states together in person. Regional discussions, networking receptions, and informal conversations created opportunities for members to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and learn from one another’s experiences. The 2025 Annual Business Meeting reflected a Commission that continues to evolve, collaborate, and lead together in support of public safety and effective interstate supervision nationwide.
As the Commission looks ahead, members will reconvene September 21-23, 2026, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for the next Annual Business Meeting. Building on the momentum and accomplishments of 2025, the Minneapolis meeting will provide another opportunity for the Compact community to come together, address emerging challenges, and continue advancing the shared mission of effective interstate supervision and public safety.
