Harper Law Allowing DOC Inmates More Family Visits to Take Effect

CHICAGO – Inmates incarcerated at state correctional facilities will be allowed more frequent family and guest visits, thanks to legislation sponsored by state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, that takes effect in the new year.

“We have an incredibly punitive system that makes it very difficult for inmates to reform their past,” said Harper. “Allowing them to see their children, other family members and people they care about will help them right the wrongs of their past and start to live better lives. This law that increases family and guests visits, I believe, will be a good motivator to make a fresh start.”

Harper worked with other legislators to allow inmates at Illinois Department of Corrections facilities to spend more time with their friends and family. Currently, inmates are allowed to have three visitors per month. House Bill 4741 lifts that cap and extends the total to seven, while allowing inmates to submit the names of up to 30 people they wish to have visit them. This measure passed the General Assembly with bipartisan support.

“This display of bipartisan support shows we are ready to continue our collective efforts to reform criminal justice and make life a little easier for our inmates,” said Harper. “This is a small, but good, step in the right way.”

Harper represents the 6th District, which includes all or portions of Armour Square, Bridgeport, Chicago Lawn, Englewood, Gage Park, Back of the Yards, Canaryville, New City, West Englewood, Marquette Park, South Loop and River North.