SCS/HB 63 - This act modifies provisions regarding correctional facilities.

This act prohibits private companies or individuals from operating private jails or correctional facilities in the future. It does not affect those companies that currently operate private jails and does not prohibit the state from contracting with private companies to provide facilities for specific programs. This provision is identical to SB 503 from 1998, except that it contains a new provision exempting the Division of Youth Services. This provision is identical to SB 36 (1999).

This act allows any inmate in the physical custody of the Department of Corrections convicted of third degree assault against a corrections employee to be placed in segregation for at least one year. Any inmate who commits second or first degree assault against a corrections employee may be placed in segregation for at least 3 years. The segregation is in addition to all other penalties provided by law. This provision is identical to HB 63 (1999).

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; however, the contract may include equipment required to ensure safe and secure service. The Department of Corrections may renegotiate existing contracts to reduce costs to called parties. This provision is identical to SB 402 (1999) and as the perfected version of SB 921 (1998).
MARGARET J. TOALSON