- Perfected -

SB 618 - This act provides that contracts for telephone service in correctional facilities shall go to the lowest and best bidder based on costs of calls to called parties. The Department of Corrections may renegotiate but may not extend the term of existing contracts to reduce costs to called parties. The contract may require that the contractor pay the state an amount not to exceed the state's cost for any wiring or equipment that is necessary to provide the service and the salaries of personnel necessary to monitor inmate telephone calls.

This act instructs the Department of Corrections to operate a female offender program to be supervised by a Director of Women's Programs. There will be an advisory committee under the direction of the Director of Women's Programs. The committee will address the needs of women in the criminal justice system.

SHELLEY FORREST