Reentry Mythbuster: On Information Technology Access

Incarcerated persons may be able to use Web-enabled resources to assist them in preparing for post-release success.

Author(s) Organizational Affiliation
Federal Interagency Reentry Council
Publication Year
2014
Resource Type
Product
Number of Pages
1
Abstract

Myth: Incarcerated persons should never be allowed Internet access because it creates an unreasonable risk to the public and to institutional security.

Fact: Internet access can be limited rather than prohibited. Incarcerated persons may be able to use Web-enabled resources to assist them in preparing for post-release success.

This fact sheet discusses technology solutions for correctional education settings. 

Benefits and Uses

The Reentry Council, established by Attorney General Holder in January 2011, represents a significant executive branch commitment to coordinating reentry efforts and advancing effective reentry policies. The Council’s myth busters are fact sheets designed to clarify existing federal policies that can improve reentry success.  This myth buster particularly addresses the topic of access to web based resources by the incarcerated.  It makes the point that access is important to reentry success in multiple domains (education, employment, housing, family etc.) and that access can be controlled to address legitimate security concerns without being prohibited. 

This resource discusses the possibilities and challenges of expaning internet access in correctional settings. 

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