Wisconsin Senate Bill SB904

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/24
• Refer: 1/11/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Reporting of and notifications about restricted movement and solitary confinement in state correctional institutions and county jails and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of SB904 would significantly alter how state laws manage inmate communications and oversight at correctional facilities. By requiring DOC to maintain up-to-date reporting on inmate restrictions, the bill aims to address concerns around the treatment of inmates and their rights to communication. Additionally, the bill mandates that sheriffs provide weekly updates to DOC regarding their county jail populations and any restrictions impacting visitation, which will further increase the level of scrutiny over local correctional practices. This initiative not only promotes a more informed public but also aims to protect the rights of the inmates by ensuring that restrictions are justified and documented.

Summary

Senate Bill 904 aims to enhance transparency and communication regarding the restrictions placed on inmates within state correctional institutions and county jails in Wisconsin. The bill mandates the establishment of an interactive reporting system by the Department of Corrections (DOC), which will detail the current status of inmate restrictions impacting their visitation and communication rights. This system will provide real-time updates on any restrictions that are currently in effect, the rationale behind these limitations, and the duration of each restriction. Furthermore, information on the current number of inmates in solitary confinement will be reported, thereby facilitating better oversight and accountability.

Contention

While many stakeholders may view SB904 as a positive step toward increasing transparency, there could be points of contention regarding how effectively local jails can comply with the reporting requirements outlined in the bill. Critics may argue that the added administrative burden could impact the resources available for other correctional needs or lead to inconsistencies in data reporting. Additionally, there may be concerns about the privacy and security of inmates as more data is collected and made publicly accessible. The discussions around the costs associated with establishing and maintaining the notification system could also spark debate among lawmakers, as the bill includes a notable appropriation for its implementation.