SB1852 would amend the Illinois Unified Code of Corrections to require Department of Corrections institutions and facilities to allow committed persons to receive the original, physical copy of mail addressed to them that they are otherwise entitled to receive. The bill defines “original, physical copy” as a letter, card, or other document delivered by the U.S. Postal Service or another delivery service, and it excludes scanned, photocopied, or otherwise duplicated mail. It also preserves the Department’s ability to make exceptions, but only when there is evidence that allowing physical mail would create a clear and present danger to the health and safety of staff or incarcerated people.
Impact
The bill would add new mail-handling requirements to Section 3-7-2 of the Unified Code of Corrections and would constrain the Department of Corrections’ ability to substitute scanned or copied mail for original mail. Any exception would have to be supported by specified evidence of contraband problems, including data on contraband incidents, testing results, locations where contraband was found, and the method of entry, with that information posted publicly on the Department’s website monthly or within 60 days after an exception is used. The bill also bars the Department from limiting communication with outside support persons because of changes in grade level, housing status, or disciplinary sanctions, and it allows committed persons to contact outside supports by phone, mail, or electronic message free of charge.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee testimony or votes in the provided materials, the measure appears to be framed as a prisoner-rights and family-connection bill focused on mail access, communication, and transparency. Its structure suggests support for maintaining direct contact between incarcerated people and outside supports, while also acknowledging institutional safety concerns through a narrow exception process. No formal voting history or transcript record is provided here to show organized support or opposition.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the balance between inmate access to original mail and correctional security concerns. Supporters would favor preserving physical mail as a communication and due-process issue, while opponents or corrections officials may argue that scanning or copying mail is necessary to reduce contraband, drugs, or other security risks. The bill tries to address that concern by requiring a documented showing of a clear and present danger and by mandating public reporting of contraband-related evidence, which may itself be controversial because it increases transparency and limits administrative discretion.