Back to Statewide Inmate Family Council (SIFC)

STATEWIDE INMATE FAMILY COUNCIL

March 27, 2025, 13:00-14:00

Meeting Minutes

SIFC Members in attendance: Clara Garcia, Angel Rice, Linda Finney, Katia Campbell, Abigail Salim, Crystal Dean and Cindy Jackson and Tyquanique Jackson (via TEAMS).

Meeting Facilitator: Carlos Santos.

  1. New Tablet Contract
  • Videos, pictures, and messaging will not be transferred over for incarcerated population once they receive their new tablets.
  • Families will be refunded their money and instructions will be provided when the time comes.
  • Rollout schedules will be provided ahead of time to SIFC so we can share with the families.
  • VIAPATH will continue to provide services for the incarcerated population until all facilities have received new tablets.
  • Due to current supply constraints, there may be extended wait times for newly transferred incarcerated individuals and those awaiting replacement tablets.
  • The services available will remain the same but the price may be different.
  • There may be a temporary service interruption (“period of darkness”) during the switch.
  • Tablets will be moving with the incarcerated so there is no need to wait for new ones upon arrival at the new institution.
  • Fire camps will be included in the distribution of tablets.

2. Vending

  • The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) will address vendor non-compliance on a case-by-case basis, with resolution timeframes determined accordingly.
  • A 30-day advance notice is recommended for any vendor price increases.
  • Facilities should invite vendors to attend Institutional Family Council (IFC) meetings to help resolve ongoing concerns.
  • Parts replacement and service work orders may be delayed, as all vendor approvals are routed through Washington D.C.

3. Regionalization

  • No significant changes for families; updates pertain primarily to institutional reporting procedures.