House of Representatives

HB 2324

corrections; Native American religious practices

Sponsors: Representatives Tom, Loredo, Laughter et al

DPA	Committee on Native American Affairs
X	Committee on Public Institutions and Rural Affairs
	Committee on Appropriations
	Caucus and COW
	Third Read
	As Passed the House

HB 2324 requires the Department of Corrections to afford Native American religious practices and spiritual advisors the same respect that is given to Judeo-Christian religions.

Current Status

HB 2324 was amended in the Native American Affairs Committee to decrease the requirement that the Department of Corrections shall permit the Native American inmates to have access to Native American spiritual advisors from at least six consecutive hours per week to four consecutive hours per week.

Provisions

· Requires the Department of Corrections (Department) to treat Native American religious practices and spiritual advisors with the same respect that is given to Judeo-Christian religions and to permit the practice of Native American religious ceremonies at each correctional facility.

· Stipulates that the Department upon request shall permit the Native American inmates on a regular basis and for at least six consecutive hours per week access to Native American spiritual advisors, a sweatlodge on the premises of the correctional facility, and items that are used in Native American practices.

· Requires the Department to provide a secure place at the site of worship in which to store the items and materials that are used in Native American religious ceremonies.

· Prohibits the Department from requiring a Native American inmate from having to cut the inmate’s hair if it conflicts with traditional Native American beliefs.

Amendment

HB 2324 was amended in the Native American Affairs Committee as follows:

· Requires the Department of Corrections to permit the Native American inmates to have access to Native American spiritual advisors for at least four consecutive hours per week, instead of six consecutive hours per week.

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45th Legislature

Second Regular Session 2 February 14, 2002

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