CA AB958

Establishes the right to personal visits (in-person contact, non-contact, and family visits) as a civil right for incarcerated persons that cannot be infringed except to further a compelling security interest of the government.

Defines "family member" broadly to include spouses, parents, children, siblings, step/in-law/grand relatives, guardians, and persons with familial-style or mentoring relationships; defines "intimate partner" as spouses, domestic partners, significant others, cohabitants, or those with whom the incarcerated person has had a child or dating relationship.

Prohibits denying or restricting in-person visits based on a visitor's or incarcerated person's criminal history, parole/probation status, prior incarceration, unpaid fines, or pending charges—except for specific violent offenses or sex crimes against minors when there is substantial risk to a particular visitor.

Allows visits to be denied or restricted only for conduct during visits: bringing contraband, physical violence, escaping, engaging in sexual conduct with minors, or sexual conduct with adults outside family visits.

Requires the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to provide at least three days of in-person visitation per week with a minimum of seven visiting hours per day, and mandates written notice within three days for any visit denial explaining the specific reason.