summary
Introduced
02/06/2025
02/06/2025
In Committee
02/06/2025
02/06/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. Provides that all institutions and facilities of the Department of Corrections shall permit every committed person to receive the original, physical copy of any mail addressed to the committed person that the committed person is entitled and allowed to receive. Provides that any exceptions to the requirements of this provision must be based on evidence that complying with the requirements of this provision present a clear and present danger to the health and safety of the correctional employees or committed persons in the correctional institution or facility. Provides that the evidence must include evidence of contraband being sent through the mail, data on the number of mail items containing contraband, test results of mail tested due to suspicion of mail containing drugs, data on where inside a correctional institution or facility contraband has been found, and the method of entry of contraband into the correctional institution or facility. Provides that the data and evidence must be made publicly available monthly on the Department's website but no later than 60 days after the use of the exception to the requirements. Provides that no committed person shall be denied, or have communications limited, with an outside support person, whether by phone, mail, video, or in person visitation, as a result of a change in the committed person's grade level or housing status or as a disciplinary sanction. Provides that committed persons may contact outside supports via phone, mail, or electronic message free of charge. Defines "original, physical copy".
AI Summary
This bill amends the Unified Code of Corrections to enhance mail and communication rights for incarcerated individuals. It requires all Department of Corrections institutions to permit committed persons to receive the original, physical copy of any mail addressed to them, with specific provisions for exceptions. These exceptions must be based on substantive evidence demonstrating a clear and present danger to health and safety, including data on contraband, drug tests, and methods of contraband entry. The bill mandates that such evidence be publicly posted monthly on the Department's website within 60 days. Additionally, the legislation prohibits limiting communications with outside support persons based on grade level changes or disciplinary actions, and ensures that committed persons can contact outside supports via phone, mail, or electronic message at no charge. The bill defines "original, physical copy" as a letter or document delivered by postal or delivery services, explicitly excluding scanned or photocopied mail. By providing these provisions, the bill aims to protect incarcerated individuals' communication rights while maintaining institutional safety and transparency.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Assignments (on 02/06/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1852&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104 |
| BillText | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/104/SB/10400SB1852.htm |
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