Connecticut 2024 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00350

Introduced
3/1/24  
Introduced
3/1/24  
Report Pass
3/28/24  
Refer
3/1/24  
Refer
3/1/24  
Refer
4/9/24  
Report Pass
3/28/24  
Report Pass
3/28/24  
Report Pass
4/16/24  
Refer
4/9/24  
Refer
4/9/24  
Report Pass
4/16/24  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Use Of Body Scanning Machines In The Public Entrance Areas Of Correctional Facilities.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would create a new standard for security at correctional facilities, ultimately aiming to deter the smuggling of contraband into these facilities by visitors. The report required by the bill will provide important data that may affect budget allocations and future legislative decisions regarding correctional facility security. There is a potential ripple effect on current operations and staffing as well, as facilities may need to adjust to accommodate the new equipment and protocols.

Summary

SB00350 mandates the use of body scanning machines at the public entrances of correctional facilities within the state, with a report due by January 1, 2025, outlining the procurement status and capabilities of these machines. The bill's primary objective is to enhance security measures by reducing the contraband entering correctional facilities, which is a growing concern for public safety. It also addresses the financial implications related to the installation and maintenance of such machines, as the Commissioner of Correction is required to provide a comprehensive analysis to the General Assembly's relevant committees.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00350 appears to be supportive among members advocating for enhanced security measures in correctional facilities. Many legislators view the introduction of body scanning technology as a necessary step towards safeguarding the integrity of state facilities. However, there may be concerns from civil liberties advocates regarding the implications of such surveillance technology on visitors' privacy and the potential for misuse.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise over the cost and logistics of implementing body scanning machines, with potential debates centering around the appropriateness and efficacy of such measures. Stakeholders in the correctional system, including prison staff, family members of incarcerated individuals, and civil rights groups, may have differing perspectives on the balance between enhanced security and visitor rights. Further discussions regarding the bill will likely focus on its implementation timeline and the overall financial burden on state resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00199

An Act Concerning The Use Of Body Scanning Machines In The Public Entrance Areas Of Correctional Facilities.

CT HB07186

An Act Establishing A Pilot Program Concerning The Use Of Body Scanning Machines In Certain Correctional Facilities And Requiring Reports Concerning Strip And Cavity Searches In Correctional Facilities.

CT S09984

Increases the penalties for promoting prison contraband in the first and second degrees; requires that each state correctional facility use body imaging scanning for all incarcerated individuals and visitors entering such facility; requires state correctional facilities to use trained canines to screen for contraband at the entrance of each facility.

CT S07728

Authorizes the use of body imaging scanning equipment in local correctional facilities for the screening of visitors in addition to incarcerated individuals.

CT SB01541

An Act Concerning The Office Of The Correction Ombuds, Disclosure Of Disciplinary Matters Or Alleged Misconduct By A Department Of Correction Employee, Use Of Force And Body Cameras In Correctional Facilities And Criminal History Records.

CT SB01543

An Act Concerning The Department Of Correction.

CT A09333

Authorizes the use of body imaging scanning equipment in certain facilities for youth and adolescent offenders placed with or committed to the office of children and family services.

CT S08963

Authorizes the use of body imaging scanning equipment in certain facilities for youth and adolescent offenders placed with or committed to the office of children and family services.

CT A10699

Establishes procedures to be followed when the body scan of an incarcerated individual, employee or visitor to a correctional facility displays alleged abnormalities; requires staff discipline for staff who have wrongfully denied visitation to a visitor or entry to an employee based on a body scan; requires the collection and reporting of certain information relating to visitation and entry denials based on body scans; requires such law to be posted in visitor processing areas of correctional facilities.

CT S09467

Establishes procedures to be followed when the body scan of an incarcerated individual, employee or visitor to a correctional facility displays alleged abnormalities; requires staff discipline for staff who have wrongfully denied visitation to a visitor or entry to an employee based on a body scan; requires the collection and reporting of certain information relating to visitation and entry denials based on body scans; requires such law to be posted in visitor processing areas of correctional facilities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.