TALHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA) – Tampa Bay lawmakers are fighting for laws that protect prisoners’ rights in the state correctional system. And while sympathy can be difficult to get for those behind the bar, previous correctional workers and prisoners’ families say it’s time for those attitudes to change.
If passed, the bill will create a “Bill of Inmates’ Rights.” This includes adequate meal times, health supplies, air conditioning or cooling units, and emergency groceries, as needed. Inmates will be provided with a written copy of these rights upon entry into the system and can file a complaint if the rights are denied.
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The sponsors behind the move say this may be the year when it will actually be heard.
State legislators, families and former revised workers gathered at the Capitol to seek action and accountability to improve care for Florida prisoners.
“A fair society doesn’t abandon people when they’re behind bars,” state Sen. Rosalind Osgood (d-Fort Lauderdale).
“For too long, our criminal justice system has overlooked the fundamental rights and dignity of incarcerated individuals. House Bill 185 is an important step to ensuring that everyone in our correctional system is treated with fairness, humanity and respect.
Keith Harris, a parole expert who has represented more than 35 inmates before the Florida Crime Review Board, stands firmly behind House Bill 185.
“I parole him, but he died. He died. The nurse who received Centurion’s medical care walked his phone for the three days, but they didn’t say a word to him. “Our medical care, the prison system today is at a profound level. It’s incredible what’s going on.”
Former Sergeant and whistleblower of the Florida Department of Corrections Mark Caruso Department are also seeking change not only for inmates but also for staff.
“When I reported these abuses, I faced retaliation. I was fired three times, but I refuse to remain silent,” Caruso said. “It’s not just prisoners to invest in a better prison situation, it’s also about supporting people who support the system every day.”
The bill was reviewed for the fifth time by Representative Hart, a hopeful committee chair.
“I’m accepting to massage any of the bills I have. I was talking to his staff about what my Republican colleagues think would make an obvious good bill,” Hart said.
Heart has another year left to listen to the next session. But the Senate sponsor of the bill says she will continue to refill for the next few years.
