Maine Voices: Allow inmates the power of a pen
BELFAST — The Maine Department of Corrections is seeking public comments through Nov. 6 on a revised disciplinary policy that includes, among other violations, prohibitions against writing: writing to a pen pal, writing via a blog that a friend on the outside helps maintain or writing through any other media outlet. I hope my fellow Mainers will join me in opposing this revision.
Opponents voice objections to proposed rules that could restrict Maine inmates’ speech
Many at Monday's hearing on the Maine Department of Corrections proposal said the proposal is too vague, would cause discipline problems at state prisons, and would damage efforts to rehabilitate prisoners.
Our View: Proposed inmate contact rules speak poorly of Maine corrections system
The communications limits violate free-speech rights and contradict practices shown to reduce the risk of recidivism.
Proposed rules for Maine prison inmates may restrict outside communication
The new rules are vaguely written, and the Department of Corrections has explained little about the draft discipline policy that it intends to air at a public hearing Monday.
