May 28, 2026 13:00-15:00
SIFC Members in attendance: Angel Rice, Crystal Dean, Katia Campbell, Clara Garcia
Division of Adult Institutions (DAI) Region IV
1. Canine Air Scans
Question:
Can regulations regarding behind-glass visits be reviewed when a search is completed with no contraband findings? Families have expressed concerns about restrictions being imposed despite negative search results or potentially inaccurate canine air-scan alerts.
Response:
Yes. Current regulations are under review, and changes are anticipated. Proposed revisions will also incorporate Family Visiting procedures. When asked about a timeline, CDCR estimated that updated regulations may be available within two to three weeks.
Question:
What is the protocol when a visitor accompanied by a service animal is selected for a passive canine air scan and the K-9 alerts due to the presence of the service animal?
Response:
Visitors with service animals are currently exempt from passive canine air scans. Alternative procedures are under review.
Question:
If one visitor in a group receives a positive alert, can the remaining visitors continue with a regular contact visit, similar to the procedures previously used under ion scan regulations?
Response:
No. CDCR continues to consider the visiting party as a single group for this purpose, and current procedures will remain unchanged.
Enterprise Information Services (EIS) – Securus Tablets
2. Statewide Tablet Implementation
Question:
Are there any statewide updates regarding the implementation of Securus tablets?
Response:
Yes. The tablet distribution schedule has been posted and updated on the CDCR website. Securus is currently being implemented at the eighth and ninth institutions, and the transition process has reportedly been progressing smoothly.
Question:
As tablet access continues to expand, can CDCR establish standardized statewide schedules for tablet availability and usage?
Response:
CDCR is no longer pursuing a statewide schedule. Each institution will establish its own phone and messaging schedules based on local operational needs.
SIFC Concern:
Families have raised concerns regarding the cost of services available through the new tablets. While some movie subscriptions appear affordable, newer releases can cost $3.99 to $9.99 for a 48-hour rental.
Response:
Stephanie Jones acknowledged the concern and agreed to review the pricing structure. She noted that increased costs may be associated with the expanded content library available through Securus, including additional movies and games. She also advised that ViaPath had planned pricing increases as well.
SIFC Concern:
Securus currently offers two messaging options: direct messaging and email-style messaging. SIFC asked why direct messaging cannot be implemented, given that it was available on the previous VSA platform.
Response:
Stephanie Jones acknowledged the concern and will provide a response after further review.
SIFC Concern:
Families with children who have special needs have reported difficulties using Securus video visitation due to facial recognition and tracking software. The software frequently generates error messages, freezes, or disconnects calls when participants do not remain still or continuously face the camera.
Question:
Can accommodation be considered to disable facial tracking requirements for approved special-needs situations?
Response:
CDCR will review the request and provide a response at a future meeting.
Restricted Housing Unit (RHU) Regulations
3. Emergency RHU Regulations
Question:
What circumstances led to the implementation of the emergency RHU regulations?
Response:
Since the implementation of the revised RHU regulations in 2023, CDCR has experienced a significant increase in violent offenses committed against staff and members of the incarcerated population. Emergency regulations were implemented to improve safety and reduce violence. CDCR clarified that these regulations apply only to individuals involved in more serious offenses.
Population Management Unit
4. California Institution for Men (CIM) Updates
Question:
What is the status of the new yard at CIM?
Response:
A new Non-Designated Programming Facility (NDPF) Level II yard is currently under development at CIM. Family Visiting units are also being constructed. No estimated completion or opening date is available at this time.
Question:
Are there any statewide updates regarding additional yard conversions?
Response:
Headquarters reported that no additional yard conversions are currently planned.
Question:
Are there any updates regarding the potential closure of the Correctional Training Facility (CTF)?
Response:
CDCR advised that the closure of CTF was discussed only as a recommendation. At this time, there are no plans for additional prison closures.