Alaska's Department of Corrections pilots tablet program at Highland Mountain facility

In a recent meeting of the Alaska State Legislature's House State Affairs Committee, lawmakers delved into the implications of a proposed bill aimed at expanding the use of tablets within correctional facilities. The discussion highlighted the ongoing pilot program at Highland Mountain Correctional Facility, where tablets are currently being utilized to enhance communication and access to resources for inmates.

Deputy Commissioner April Wilkerson provided insights into the program, explaining that the tablets are part of a closed network designed to ensure security and limit access to approved content. Inmates can use the tablets for essential functions such as accessing a digital law library, communicating with attorneys, and submitting requests for information electronically. This shift from manual processes to digital ones aims to streamline operations and potentially reduce costs associated with paper and staff time.

However, concerns were raised regarding the security of the devices and the financial implications of the program. Lawmakers questioned the costs associated with the tablets, particularly in light of the significant fees charged by various service providers in the correctional industry. The Deputy Commissioner assured the committee that any future implementation would involve a thorough procurement process to ensure cost-effectiveness and security.

The conversation also touched on the broader issue of recidivism in Alaska, with representatives emphasizing the importance of tracking data to assess the program's impact on reducing re-offense rates. The potential for educational programming through the tablets was highlighted as a means to equip inmates with skills that could aid their reintegration into society.

As the meeting concluded, the committee expressed a commitment to exploring how technology could not only improve the lives of inmates but also contribute to the overall efficiency of the correctional system. The discussions underscored a growing recognition of the role that innovative solutions can play in addressing longstanding challenges within the state's correctional facilities.