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PRESS RELEASE: DOC Suspending Visitation, Limiting Other Events

Released March 12, 2020

Contact Janelle Guthrie, (360) 764-9791

DOC Communications

TUMWATER – The Department of Corrections takes the health and safety of our staff and incarcerated individuals very seriously. At the same time, Corrections recognizes the importance of family visitation, programming and other opportunities provided to our incarcerated population per our mission of improving public safety by positively changing lives.

Consistent with DOH guidelines (pdf), Corrections is working to implement enhanced screening protocols for all employees/contract staff, incarcerated individuals and others entering DOC facilities and field offices to include taking temperatures and answering screening questionnaires.

Until the Department is able to put those protocols into place, we are taking the following actions effective March 13:

  • Suspending visitation at all correctional facilities in Washington, including extended family visits (EFV). Corrections has authorized reimbursement for families scheduled for EFVs;
  • Restricting access for all individuals, with the exception of employees/contract staff and legal professionals, to the Monroe Correctional Complex, Washington Corrections Center and Washington Corrections Center for Women; and
  • Suspending all tours and events involving four or more outside guests at all facilities.

This situation is constantly evolving. Corrections will provide updates as things changes.