This bill establishes the "No More Jail Deaths Act".
Currently, the following individuals are permitted to visit the state prisons at any time:
(1) The Governor;
(2) The Lieutenant Governor;
(3) The Attorney General;
(4) The State Auditor;
(5) The State Treasurer;
(6) The Secretary of State;
(7) Members of the General Assembly;
(8) The Director of the Department of Public Safety;
(9) The commissioners of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education;
(10) The Commissioners of the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development;
(11) The Adjutant General of the State;
(12) Judges of the Supreme Court, Courts of Appeal, and Circuit courts; and
(13) Circuit and prosecuting attorneys.
Currently, the assistants of these individuals may visit a prison at any reasonable time specifically authorized by their superior, following rules and regulations established by the Department of Corrections. Any other individual must have special permission or follow regulations of the Department. All clergy of every recognized denomination have access to the prisons and may visit any offender, subject to security and safety rules to administer rites and ceremonies. This bill applies the above provisions to jails and detention centers as well. The rules and regulations for visits and the authority to allow visitors rest with the political subdivision in control of the jail or detention center instead of the Department of Corrections.
The bill requires a city, county, or other political subdivision that operates a jail or detention facility to adopt or update rules or regulations consistent with this section by March 1, 2027, and submit a copy to the Department of Public Safety for archival purposes. The Department has the authority to provide guidance and may review the rules or regulations for consistency with state standards.
Statutes affected: