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AK SB19

Prisoners: Electronic Device Access/use


summary

Introduced
01/22/2025
In Committee
04/25/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

34th Legislature

Bill Summary

An Act relating to the use and possession of electronic devices by prisoners.

AI Summary

This bill modifies existing regulations regarding electronic devices and services in Alaska state correctional facilities, restricting and regulating prisoners' access to and use of electronic devices. Specifically, the bill prohibits prisoners from possessing cell phones, computers, or electronic tablets without specific approval, and limits such device usage to purposes that facilitate rehabilitation, reentry plans, employment, education, legal research, visitation, or health care. The bill also prevents 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, instead only serving to supplement them. Additionally, the bill maintains existing restrictions on prisoners' access to certain types of media, such as R-rated movies, obscene materials, and content that could potentially incite violence or aid criminal activity. The proposed changes aim to balance technological access with maintaining safety, discipline, and rehabilitation goals within correctional facilities, ensuring that electronic devices are used constructively and do not compromise institutional security.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs, Justice

Sponsors (4)

Last Action

Senate Judiciary Hearing (13:30:00 5/7/2025 Butrovich 205) (on 05/07/2025)

bill text


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