Bill > HB35

This bill modifies regulations for prisoners in Alaska state correctional facilities, focusing on electronic devices, identification cards, and prisoner services. Specifically, the bill allows prisoners to possess certain electronic devices like cassette tape players and telephones, and use computers or electronic tablets for approved purposes such as rehabilitation, education, vocational training, legal research, visitation, and healthcare. The bill prohibits correctional facilities from charging fees for electronic mail or electronic visitation services and mandates that electronic devices cannot replace in-person visitation or existing rehabilitation programs. Additionally, the bill updates prisoner identification card requirements, allowing the department to issue an ID card before a prisoner's release that is similar (but not identical) to a driver's license, with specific identifying information and security features. The ID card will continue to have restrictions, such as not being valid for purchasing alcoholic beverages, and will include a statement that it is for identification purposes only. These changes aim to provide prisoners with more controlled access to technology and improve their identification documentation upon release.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB35