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Bill

S 5680

Provides notice of the death of an incarcerated individual occurring in the custody of the department of corrections and community supervision

2025 Regular Session Introduced by April Baskin and 8 co-sponsors

Bill S 5680 requires the Department of Corrections to promptly notify families and advocates of incarcerated individuals' deaths, enhancing transparency and accountability.

COMMITTED TO RULES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 5680

Summary of Bill S 5680

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 5680
Title: Provides notice of the death of an incarcerated individual occurring in the custody of the department of corrections and community supervision
Status: Committed to Rules
Introduced: February 27, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 5680 is to establish a formal notification process regarding the death of individuals who are incarcerated and under the custody of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). This legislation aims to ensure that appropriate parties are informed promptly when such an event occurs, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability within the correctional system.

Key Provisions

  • Notification Requirement: The bill mandates that the DOCCS must notify specific individuals or entities upon the death of an incarcerated person. This includes:

    • Family members of the deceased
    • Legal representatives
    • Relevant advocacy groups

  • Timeliness of Notification: The bill specifies a timeframe within which notifications must be made following the death, although specific time limits are not detailed in the provided information.

  • Documentation: The bill may require the DOCCS to maintain records of notifications sent, ensuring that there is a clear trail of communication regarding the death of incarcerated individuals.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The bill directly impacts:

    • Incarcerated individuals and their families, who will receive timely information about deaths.
    • The DOCCS, which will need to implement new procedures for notification.
    • Advocacy groups that monitor the treatment and conditions of incarcerated individuals.

  • Transparency and Accountability: By formalizing the notification process, the bill aims to improve transparency in the correctional system and hold the DOCCS accountable for the welfare of individuals in its custody.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 27, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction.
  • March 25, 2025: First report calendar.
  • March 26, 2025: Second report calendar.
  • March 27, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • June 13, 2025: Committed to Rules.

Related Legislation

  • S 7607: A related bill from the prior session that may address similar issues.
  • A 1010: A companion bill that likely mirrors the provisions of S 5680 in the Assembly.

This summary provides a clear understanding of Bill S 5680, its intent, key provisions, and the potential impact on the correctional system and affected individuals.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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