The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1309, aims to authorize wardens of correctional facilities to impose fines on incarcerated individuals for specific disciplinary infractions, including serious offenses such as arson, assault, and inciting riots. The fines can range from a minimum of fifteen dollars to a maximum of fifty dollars and are in addition to any other penalties that may be assessed for the same actions. Collected fines will be deposited into a newly established Correctional General Welfare Fund, which is intended to benefit all persons who are incarcerated.
Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to replace references to "inmates" with "persons who are incarcerated," reflecting a more inclusive terminology. It also repeals and replaces Section 4-57a of the general statutes, which governs the establishment of activity funds for the benefit of incarcerated individuals. The new provisions clarify the management and use of these funds, ensuring that all gifts, donations, and fines collected are directed towards the welfare of those incarcerated, as determined by the Commissioner of Correction. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Raised Bill: 4-57a