Bill Summary:

Under current law, the department of public health and environment (department) is charged with making annual sanitary, sewerage, and health inspections of penal institutions. The bill defines "penal institutions" and includes in that definition public and private facilities that house noncitizens for civil immigration proceedings. The bill specifically authorizes unannounced follow-up inspections by the department. For the 2020-21 fiscal year, the bill directs the department to make the annual inspections of facilities that house noncitizens before January 1, 2021, and to submit its report to the governor and specified committees of the general assembly. (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)

CEA Position Rationale: CEA supports work to ensure that all student and families are treated fairly and justly and have access to humane conditions. Students and their families must be treated safely regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, or citizenship.

Legislative Priorities: Prioritize Working Families and Union Values, Dismantle Inequitable and Racist Structures 

Tier: 3