Bill > SB1068

This bill modifies Missouri law regarding possession of unlawful items in prisons and jails by expanding the list of prohibited items to include unauthorized portable electronic communication devices. Specifically, the bill adds a new category of prohibited items that includes cellular telephones, text-messaging devices, personal digital assistants, pagers, and other electronic devices capable of initiating, receiving, storing, or viewing electronic communication or data. The bill establishes a new penalty for possessing such devices, classifying it as a class D felony. The legislation also updates the penalty structure for other prohibited items, such as controlled substances (class D felony), intoxicating liquors (class E felony), and prohibited personal property (class A misdemeanor or class B felony). Additionally, the bill allows jail administrators to deny visitation privileges or refer to prosecution anyone attempting to bring prohibited items into a correctional facility. The bill includes a provision for potential record expungement for certain violations, though this does not apply to cases involving controlled substances. The overall intent appears to be enhancing security in correctional facilities by strictly controlling the introduction of potential contraband, with a particular focus on electronic communication devices that could compromise institutional safety.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=316