(a) Except as otherwise provided in this Code section, whenever an inmate is discharged upon pardon or completion of his sentence or is conditionally released or paroled from any place of detention to which he has been assigned under the authority of the department, the department shall provide the inmate the following:

(1) Transportation to the inmate's home within the United States or to a place chosen by the inmate and authorized by regulations of the board;

(2) An amount of money of not less than $25.00 and not more than $150.00, as determined according to regulations of the board; and

(3) A travel kit, when appropriate, and suitable clothing, each as provided by regulation of the board.

(b) Whenever an inmate assigned to a county correctional institution by the department is discharged upon pardon or completion of his sentence or is conditionally released or paroled, the county shall provide the inmate the release benefits to which he is eligible under this Code section, and the department shall reimburse the county.

(c) An inmate whose limits of confinement have been extended to allow him to participate in a work-release program of paid employment shall receive the benefits provided by this Code section only to the extent of financial need, as determined pursuant to regulations of the board.

(d) An inmate convicted of an offense which is less than a felony shall receive the amount of $25.00 or less as determined under regulations of the board and transportation as provided in this Code section.

(e) The department shall administer these benefits through regulations which are based upon the knowledge and skill of the board in aiding an inmate to make the initial adjustment to his release.