SCDOC Inmate Visitation Reinstatement

I am writing to request that visitation privileges be reinstated for all South Carolina Department of Corrections inmates that are not on quarantine. We have been waiting long enough. It is time to stop punishing inmates and their loved ones by denying them their right to visitation. This has gone on longer than any other state facility visitation program, and it is violating the rights of our incarcerated loved ones. Inmates need visitation in order to rehabilitate to the fullest extent. Denying this right not only hurts their overall morale, but it also prevents them from having that irreplaceable bond with their family and loved ones. The families of those incarcerated have been patient and understanding during this time of COVID-19 and the implementation of health restrictions and safety controls. However, the continued visitation restrictions are a violation of the rights of our incarcerated loved ones and those who wish to visit them. It must end now. Additionally, demanding that each visitor have a COVID-19 vaccine is also a violation of our human rights. Some people cannot receive the vaccine due to health concerns or medical reasons. Requiring proof of vaccination is almost the equivalent of asking someone for their "papers" in a communist society. It is unconstitutional and it violates our rights as human beings to demand that anyone receive an experimental vaccine to visit an incarcerated loved one. Again, this will directly affect the recovery of incarcerated people by not allowing them their right to visitation.