Personal hygiene products for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)
Impact
The introduction of SB797 is designed to amend existing laws by ensuring that basic personal hygiene needs of inmates are met more adequately. By providing a specified list of products along with a regular stipend, the bill aims to create a more humane correctional environment. The financial provisions included allocate $6.45 million to the DOC for the biennium of 2023-25 to support these initiatives. This funding is critical in enhancing the lifestyle of inmates, potentially reducing the spread of hygiene-related health issues within correctional facilities.
Summary
Senate Bill 797 addresses the provision of personal hygiene products for inmates in state correctional institutions and county jails. The bill mandates that the Department of Corrections (DOC) supply a range of hygiene items, such as deodorant, shampoo, body wash, and culturally sensitive products that are suitable for different hair types. Each inmate will also receive a monthly hygiene stipend of $25 to purchase additional products from the commissary at state facilities. The legislation aims to improve the access of inmates to essential hygiene products, which can contribute positively to their health and well-being during incarceration.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its intent to address basic needs of inmates, there may be points of contention regarding its execution and funding. Critics may argue about the sufficiency of the proposed stipend in catering to real needs and whether the selection of products adequately addresses the diverse backgrounds of inmates. Additionally, concerns could arise regarding local jails and how closely they will follow the guidelines set forth in the legislation. The debate may focus on how effectively the state can implement these provisions and whether the appropriated funds will meet the demands of the proposed changes.
Minimum wage for all inmates and residents of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)
Minimum wage for all inmates and residents of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.