Kansas Senate Bill SB483

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/24
• Refer: 2/8/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Establishing the crime of interference with a security camera in a correctional facility.

Impact

The enactment of SB 483 would add a new layer of legal protection for security apparatus in correctional facilities, implicating both staff accountability and inmate behavior. By specifically addressing security cameras, the bill reflects a growing concern for safety and surveillance in such institutions, aiming to prevent disruptions that could lead to escapes or riots. The classification of offenses related to such interference underscores the seriousness with which the legislature views the potential implications of tampering with security measures in correctional settings.

Summary

Senate Bill 483 seeks to establish the crime of interference with a security camera specifically in correctional institutions. The bill delineates what constitutes interference, which includes intentionally covering a security camera without permission from relevant authorities such as the secretary of corrections or warden. This act would be classified as a class A nonperson misdemeanor. Additionally, the bill introduces aggravated interference, which encompasses more severe actions like removing, damaging, or disabling a security camera, and these actions would categorize as severity level 9 and level 6 nonperson felonies based on the context of the offense, such as during a riot.

Contention

While the text of the bill does not provide extensive commentary on points of contention, it is likely that concerns may arise regarding the broadness of the definitions, particularly around what constitutes 'interference' and the potential for overreach in the enforcement of these new rules. Some advocacy groups and individuals could argue against the potential for harsher punishments and the implications for prison conditions and inmate oversight. The balance between maintaining security and ensuring humane treatment within correctional institutions will be a significant topic of discourse as this bill moves through the legislative process.