NY state sets tougher prison visitation rules

New York correctional officials have set tougher rules that would suspend inmates' visitation privileges for up to six months for a drug violation. More from WAMC's Dave Lucas.


The revised rules, effective this week at the state's 60 prison facilities, also authorize indefinitely suspending visitors' privileges for misbehavior that gets them kicked out once.

According to the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, previously inmates found by staff to commit a drug violation and sent to special housing were eligible for visits.

Violations by visitors typically have meant termination of that visit.

Corrections Commissioner Brian Fischer says the changes will enhance the visitation program while strengthening prison safety and security.

More than 54,000 inmates are incarcerated in the state prison system.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.