JOLIET – Amid ongoing discussions on how to address illicit substances coming into Illinois prisons by mail, State Senator Rachel Ventura criticized the Illinois Department of Corrections’ decision to electronically scan and withhold mail from incarcerated people.

“The way the emergency rule is being implemented by the Illinois Department of Corrections is a poorly thought out response that does not serve the needs of incarcerated people nor properly protect staff at our prison facilities,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “DOC has dragged their feet every step of the way on addressing the illicit mail issue, and this latest decision was a rushed stopgap to a problem the legislature has been trying to solve for years.”

The legislative oversight panel formally objected to DOC’s decision to withhold mail from incarcerated people and instead deliver electronically scanned copies of external correspondence they receive. Several lawmakers had expressed their dissatisfaction with this direction via letter.

Members of the general assembly have even put forth alternatives to this solution, such as Senator Ventura’s bill to use K-9 units to search the mail, but none of the proposals have been adopted.

Groups such as the ACLU also expressed their concerns with the emergency rule pointing to the ineffective strategy, lack of public input, erosion of rights and the loss of human connection.

“We are pleased that the JCAR members called for further deliberation, rather than moving forward without careful consideration of the implications of a rule around mail for people in the custody of IDOC,” said Ben Ruddell of the ACLU of Illinois. “We have not seen evidence that the Department's proposal to severely restrict incarcerated people's access to mail would make Illinois prisons any safer for the people who live or work there. But while there would be no gain of security or safety, the rule would have a negative impact on the ability of incarcerated people to communicate with their attorneys, families and friends about personal family matters, urgent health needs and even legal representation. JCAR’s actions provide IDOC an opportunity to craft a more thoughtful set of policies."

JCAR’s objection, paired with criticism from lawmakers and ACLU underscore continued issues with DOC and highlight the need for more collaboration and action from the administration.

“I will never stop fighting for those who aren’t in a position to fight for themselves,” said Ventura. “We must preserve the rights of incarcerated individuals and work collaboratively to protect any interaction they still have with their loved ones.”