SB3555 Summary

• Department of Corrections must adopt a rule in consultation with a qualified librarian (Master's degree or Ph.D. in Library Science) governing rejection of books and publications for incarcerated persons.

• Books, publications, or library materials may only be rejected if they are detrimental to facility security, constitute child pornography as defined in the Criminal Code of 2012, or may facilitate criminal activity.

• Incarcerated persons denied access to requested books or materials may appeal to the Director or an appointed person or body, with final decisions subject to review under the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act.

• Prohibits chief administrative officers and correctional officers from summarily rejecting publications or establishing blanket lists of prohibited materials without meeting the three specified criteria.