CA AB1270

Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation must permit news media representatives to conduct in-person interviews with prisoners upon reasonable notice, including both prearranged interviews and spontaneous interviews during facility tours.

News media representatives may use recording devices, pens, papers, and other materials necessary for interviews, subject to security searches for immediate and direct threats.

Wardens must respond to interview requests within 48 hours and notify victims who requested such notification at least two business days before an approved interview occurs.

Wardens may deny interviews only if determined to pose an immediate and direct threat to institutional security or public safety, with written explanation required within a reasonable timeframe.

Prisoners cannot be punished, disciplined, transferred, or retaliated against for participating in media visits or communications, and interviews are exempt from auditory monitoring.