Connecting with family is now officially part of the rehabilitation process for incarcerated individuals in Colorado. Governor Jared Polis put pen to paper on legislation that mandates visitation rights for those behind bars. The move has been cheered by advocates and lawmakers as a step toward acknowledging the human need for connection, even while serving time.
Recognizing the multi-faceted benefits of maintaining family ties during incarceration, Rep. Regina English told Colorado Senate Democrats, “This law is about treating incarcerated Coloradans as humans and making their re-entry into their communities more successful to reduce recidivism and improve safety across our state.” Stress alleviation and hope fostering are among the benefits this law seeks to promote, ensuring no one is cut off from their support systems, even in their darkest moments.
New pathways for healing are envisioned through this legislation, as families historically affected by the rigidity of the criminal justice system are now provided a lifeline to one another. Senate President James Coleman emphasized to Colorado Democrats the strength and support found within families, pointing out how systemic barriers have often shattered these critical bonds. By enshrining rights for regular visits, phone calls, and connections, Coleman believes the law will aid in transforming the justice system into an instrument of repair.
Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon decried the use of visitation denial as a punitive measure, likening it to a vestige of slavery when incarcerated people were pushed into labor for mere conversation with their loved ones. According to what she told Colorado Senate Democrats, "America abolished slavery in the 1800s, yet incarcerated Coloradans are being forced into labor just to be able to have a conversation with their friends and family." With this new law, she argues, the state recognizes the basic rights of Coloradans, irrespective of their incarceration status.
