Summary of Bill S 2682

Bill Information

• Bill Number: S 2682
• Title: Requires the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to Publicly Post Certain Information After the Death of an Individual in Custody
• Status: Referred to Crime Victims, Crime and Correction
• Introduced: January 22, 2025
• Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 2682 aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) by mandating the public disclosure of specific information following the death of an individual in custody. The intent is to provide clarity and assurance to the public regarding the circumstances surrounding such deaths, thereby fostering trust in the correctional system.

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following key provisions:

1. Public Posting Requirement:

   • The DOCCS will be required to publicly post detailed information regarding the death of any individual in its custody. This information must be made available on the department's official website.

2. Information to be Disclosed:

   • The specific details to be disclosed include:
     • The date and location of the death.
     • The circumstances leading to the death.
     • Any known causes of death.
     • A summary of the events that occurred prior to the individual's death.
     • Information regarding any investigations initiated as a result of the death.

3. Timeline for Posting:

   • The bill stipulates a timeline within which the information must be posted following the death, ensuring timely access to the public.

Affected Parties

• Individuals in Custody: The bill directly impacts individuals who are in the custody of the DOCCS, as it addresses the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
• Families of Deceased Individuals: Families will benefit from increased transparency regarding the deaths of their loved ones.
• General Public: The public will have access to critical information that may influence perceptions of the correctional system's accountability and safety.

Procedural Aspects

• The bill was introduced on January 22, 2025, and has been referred to the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction for further consideration. The next steps will involve discussions, potential amendments, and a vote within the committee before it can proceed to the full legislative body.

Conclusion

Bill S 2682 represents a significant step towards improving transparency in the correctional system by ensuring that information regarding deaths in custody is publicly accessible. By mandating the disclosure of specific details, the bill seeks to promote accountability and foster public trust in the operations of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.