Bill > HR36

This resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on the quality of libraries in Pennsylvania's correctional facilities (referred to as "carceral libraries"). The resolution emphasizes that education is a human right and that prison libraries play a crucial role in rehabilitation by helping incarcerated individuals develop skills, knowledge, and opportunities for successful reintegration into society. The study must include specific areas of investigation, such as assessing the adequacy of book and media collections, evaluating user services, determining the number and types of books per incarcerated individual, and examining library accessibility. The Joint State Government Commission is required to gather input directly from incarcerated individuals about their library experiences, including questions about material variety, orientation, resource preparedness for post-incarceration life, pricing, and time allocated for library use. Additionally, the Commission must provide policy recommendations to the House of Representatives based on its findings and submit a detailed report within one year of the resolution's adoption, with the ultimate goal of improving library services in correctional facilities.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=R&bn=36