SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — In response to the spread of COVID-19, the Illinois Department of Corrections is suspending all visits to state prisons effective March 14 until further notice.
In a statement on the agency website, IDOC says that after consultation with the Illinois Department of Public Health, the decision was made to suspend the visits immediately.
While they recognize the importance of visitation as an essential component of rehabilitation, family connection and quality of life for those in custody, their top priority is the health and safety of those who live and work in their facilities.
They say they’re hopeful the policy change will be short-lived. Due to the change, they’re expanding opportunities for video visits and phone calls, as well as providing all people in custody with funds for two 20-minute phone calls and one 15-minute video visit.
They also encourage families to write to their incarcerated loved ones as often as possible. Attorneys are still permitted to visit IDOC facilities, but will be screened upon arrival.
The Department has not identified any positive cases of coronavirus, but is taking a number of preventative measures, including:
- The Department modified it’s Pandemic Influenza and Continuity of Operations plans.
- Hand sanitizer, antibacterial soap, and cleaning supplies are being made available to all staff and incarcerated individuals.
- Staff who are presenting symptoms of COVID-19 are being screened by medical personnel.
- During the intake process, all individuals, including parole violators, are being screened by medical personnel.
- All correctional facilities and transport vehicles are being routinely cleaned and disinfected.
- Staff and incarcerated individuals are being encouraged to practice good health habits, including hand-washing.
- We are communicating regularly with staff and people in custody to ensure they feel safe during this developing situation.
- The Department continues to work closely with the Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois Emergency
- Management Agency to ensure we are following all guidelines put forth by the Centers for Disease Control. We will continue to monitor this fluid situation and adjust our procedures as necessary.