With all the talk about making government leaner and smarter, you might think lawmakers wouldn't waste their time discussing a bill that even its chief proponent acknowledges is probably not needed.
Yet that's what the Judiciary Committee did this afternoon when it appeared* to pass a bill directing the state Department of Corrections to set rules as to what books are available in prison libraries across Connecticut.
But corrections has already begun the process of setting standards for prison libraries; the department expects to have its policies in place by July 1.
"Does this have to be done through legislation? Why can't it be done administratively? That's kind of escaping me" asked Rep. John Shaban, a Republican from Redding.
"At the end of the day we may not necessarily need this piece of legislation,'' responded Sen. John Kissel, the Enfield Republican who proposed the bill.
While Kissel says he's pleased that corrections has begun the process of drafting new guidelines, passing the bill will ensure that prison officials are "staying on task regarding this matter.
"I thought it was important enough to move forward...it allows us to keep track and make sure the department follows through on its recommendations," Kissel added.
