Individuals who hope to visit an inmate in a Minnesota correctional facility will now seek to get their visitor application approved through electronic means as the state shifts away from paper applications.
Previously, individuals hoping to visit an inmate needed to submit an application through the U.S. mail system, which added days of waiting to the process and included postage fees. In an attempt to better streamline the process and eliminate postage fees for visitors, the Minnesota Department of Corrections is modernizing its application process by taking it online. An electronic application pilot program was put in place at the Rush City correctional facility last December, and officials were so pleased with the upgrade that proponents pushed for a statewide system change
“Moving to electronic processing for visiting applications is more than just a technology upgrade, it’s also a demonstration of the DOC’s commitment to a more accessible and responsive corrections system,” said Corrections Commissioner Paul Schnell. “We know that staying connected to loved ones is vital to rehabilitation and positive outcomes. This innovation helps make those crucial relationships stronger.”
Electronic Application System Begins Today
The electronic application system officially went live for all adult correctional facilities across Minnesota today, Monday August 4th. The Department of Corrections will stop accepting paper applications through the mail on August 11. Applications received before that date will be processed, while those received after that day will be returned with instructions about how to apply online.
The electronic applications are available through the DOC’s website under Visiting Information, as well as on each facility’s individual webpage, available in both English and Spanish. After an electronic application has been processed by the DOC, the applicant will receive an email notification letting them know if their application was approve or denied. Those without internet access or those in need of assistance with the electronic application process should reach out to DOC staff at (320) 358-0466.
This sounds like a win for everyone, as it should lead to quicker turnaround times, less physical clutter and fewer postage expenses for applicants and the DOC. As always, if you want to do what you can to remain out of jail so that your loved ones don’t need to fill out an application to come visit you, connect with an experienced criminal defense firm. In the greater Twin Cities area, consider syncing up with Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
