HB 1860

This bill requires the department of correction ("department"") to disclose records and information to any member of the general assembly to enable the member to determine whether the laws of this state are being complied with regarding inmates in the department's custody. If a member of the general assembly receives a written inquiry regarding whether the laws of this state regarding inmates are being complied with or whether the laws of this state need to be changed, then this bill authorizes the member to submit a written request to the department of correction, requesting review of the records and information relating to the inquiry. The member must include in the request the name of the inmate whose case file is to be reviewed and any other information that will assist the department in locating the information. This bill requires t he member to sign a form before reviewing the records and information that outlines the state and federal laws regarding confidentiality and the penalties for unauthorized release of the information. All records and information being reviewed by a member must remain in the department's possession. After reviewing the records and information, if the member requests additional information, the department must discuss with the member the circumstances related to the records and informati on being disclosed."