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Subcommittee backs bill to cap prices at Department of Corrections canteens where implemented
Summary
House Bill 3,929 received a favorable report after members heard concerns about perceived price gouging at correctional facility canteens; the bill allows wardens to opt in and sets price limits where canteens operate.
The Domestic Relations Business and Probate Law Subcommittee on Thursday gave House Bill 3,929 a favorable 5-0 report; the bill would establish statutory provisions governing Department of Corrections canteens and cap prices for items sold in those canteens where a warden or facility operator elects to operate a canteen.
Representative John King, the bill filer, said he filed the bill because of reports from family members of incarcerated people that some items in prison canteens are priced excessively. "I believe that there's price gouging within the system, in the canteens, and this just puts, where they cannot exceed a certain amount," Representative John King said. He described anecdotal reports of small personal items — for example, travel-size deodorant — selling for prices family members found high.
Representative David Martin asked for clarification of the bill's compulsory nature; Martin noted the bill appears permissive and would regulate canteens only "in the event [a facility] want[s] to" operate one. Representative King confirmed that the bill does not require facilities to operate a canteen; rather, if a facility allows a canteen, the bill would regulate pricing and operation.
The subcommittee recorded a roll-call favorable report on HB 3,929 by a vote of 5 in favor, none opposed. No amendments or fiscal details were discussed during the hearing.
