SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Department of Corrections has been allowed to continue using its controversial mail scanning policy despite public backlash. This comes after the top committee of state lawmakers has held multiple hearings to discuss issues with the mail scanning technology for people trying to correspond with their family and attorneys.
Agency leaders told the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules Friday that they have made significant changes to the policy after a public hearing and meetings with stakeholders. Those include new definitions to clarify types of mail and allow people to request printouts of notes from family and friends.
IDOC also plans to roll out an improved multi-factor authentication system for privileged mail by July 1.
"Understanding that privileged mail is some of the most important communication coming into our facilities, we are participating in meaningful conversations with the legal community and other privileged centers of mail as defined by the rule," said IDOC Chief Compliance Officer Michael Crum.
The department said scans or photocopies of mail are intended to be clear, concise and legible. IDOC will also ban the storage of any biometric identifiers on the tablets people use to read mail.
"I represent thousands of correctional officers but also the residents of those facilities," said Sen. Sally Turner (R-Lincoln). "This brings about some meaningful safeguards that are going to help us in our facility."
While the committee accepted the permanent mail scanning rules Friday, JCAR members said this is likely not the final word on the issue as there are many people philosophically opposed to the policy.
"I have a feeling you will be spending time in front of the larger General Assembly over the next couple of months dealing with proposed legislation on this matter that may take this policy in a different direction," said Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-Chicago).
Restore Justice told WAND News they are deeply disappointed with the permanent rules for mail scanning within IDOC. The organization said they have met with the department and shared serious concerns and feedback about ensuring the privacy of personal and legal correspondence, and the ability of people who are incarcerated to maintain essential contact with their loved ones.
"We do not see substantive changes reflected in the final rules," Restore Justice said. "This practice lacks any empirical data demonstrating its effectiveness, severely compromises the privacy and timeliness essential to the legal mail process, and erodes the dignity, humanity and safety of people who are incarcerated in Illinois."
Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law last summer to require IDOC collect and publicize data on contraband found in prisons. Sponsors believe the law will provide transparency around emergency medical responses, hospitalizations and drug overdoses. IDOC will be required to start collecting this data on July 1 and publish the information on or before Aug. 1 of each year.
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