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Bill

Bill

A 5304

Relates to investigation of incidents of bodily injury or harm to incarcerated individuals

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Demond Meeks

Bill A 5304 mandates independent investigations of injuries to incarcerated individuals, ensuring accountability, transparency, and safety in correctional facilities.

REFERRED TO CORRECTION
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5304

Summary of Bill A 5304

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 5304
  • Title: Relates to investigation of incidents of bodily injury or harm to incarcerated individuals
  • Status: Referred to Correction
  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5304 aims to enhance the accountability and transparency of the correctional system by establishing a standardized process for investigating incidents of bodily injury or harm that occur to individuals who are incarcerated. The intent is to ensure that such incidents are thoroughly examined, thereby promoting the safety and well-being of incarcerated individuals.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following key provisions:

  1. Mandatory Investigations:

    • All incidents resulting in bodily injury or harm to incarcerated individuals must be investigated by an independent body.
  2. Reporting Requirements:

    • Correctional facilities will be required to report incidents of injury or harm to a designated oversight agency within a specified timeframe.
  3. Data Collection and Analysis:

    • The bill mandates the collection of data related to these incidents, which will be analyzed to identify patterns and prevent future occurrences.
  4. Training and Protocols:

    • Establishes requirements for training correctional staff on the proper protocols for handling incidents of injury and ensuring the safety of incarcerated individuals.
  5. Public Access to Reports:

    • Findings from investigations will be made available to the public, promoting transparency and accountability within the correctional system.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Incarcerated Individuals: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are those who are incarcerated, as it seeks to protect their rights and well-being.
  • Correctional Facilities: These institutions will need to adapt to new reporting and investigation protocols.
  • Oversight Agencies: Agencies responsible for conducting investigations will be tasked with additional responsibilities and resources to ensure compliance with the bill.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 12, 2025, and has been referred to the Correction Committee for further consideration. The timeline for further legislative action will depend on the committee's schedule and subsequent votes.

Conclusion

Bill A 5304 represents a significant step towards improving the treatment of incarcerated individuals by ensuring that incidents of bodily injury or harm are properly investigated and addressed. By instituting mandatory investigations and promoting transparency, the bill aims to foster a safer environment within correctional facilities.

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

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