Section 525.120  Processing of Mail

a)         Mail shall be delivered and posted promptly.

b)         Individuals in custody may correspond with anyone in the free community in accordance with this Subpart without prior written approval of the Chief Administrative Officer, except with employees, former employees, or releasees of the Department.  Permission for committed persons to correspond between intra-state and inter-state correctional facilities shall require the approval of the Chief Administrative Officers of both facilities and shall be based on safety and security concerns.

c)         Each facility shall establish procedures in cooperation with the local post office for processing certified or registered mail. To send certified or registered mail, individuals in custody shall have sufficient funds in their trust fund accounts and shall attach to the envelopes signed money vouchers so that the proper postage may be applied and the amount deducted from their trust fund accounts.

d)         Individuals in custody shall not be permitted to open, read, or deliver another individual in custody's mail without the person's permission. However, individuals in custody may transport mail in sacks or other closed containers under the direct supervision of an employee.

e)         No disciplinary restrictions shall be placed on an individual in custody's mail privileges.

(Source:  Amended at 50 Ill. Reg. 1047, effective January 9, 2026)