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House passes bill increasing penalties for contraband in state correctional facilities amid debate over vagueness
Summary
Senate Bill 59 revises criminal classifications for delivery and possession of unauthorized items in correctional facilities, adding explicit penalties for cell phones, weapons and certain deliveries. Supporters said it protects staff and inmates; critics called parts too broad or premature while system problems remain.
The House approved Senate Bill 59, which revises penalties related to delivery, possession with intent to deliver and possession of unauthorized articles in state correctional facilities.
The bill clarifies and expands the list of prohibited items, sets specific felony classifications for offenses such as possession of cell phones and delivery of weapons, and updates statutory language to align with Department of Corrections policies, according to the sponsor.
Representative Bob Wahlberg, speaking for the bill, said the proposals came from investigations and testimony presented to the Attorney General’s office and were aimed at protecting corrections staff and…
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