Arkansas Prisons Ban Direct Delivery of Books and Media to Inmates to Combat Contraband

Summary

Arkansas has implemented a new policy restricting inmates from receiving physical books, newspapers, and magazines directly from outside sources, effective February 1. The policy was approved by the Arkansas Board of Corrections to combat contraband smuggling into prisons. Critics argue this severely limits inmates' access to reading materials, as prison libraries and prison-issued tablets often have limited offerings. The policy represents a significant change in how inmates can access educational and recreational reading materials.