(A) As used in this section:

(1) "Computer," "computer network," "computer system," "computer services," "telecommunications service," and "information service" have the same meanings as in section 2913.01 of the Revised Code.

(2) "Contractor" means either of the following:

(a) A person who enters into a contract under section 9.06 of the Revised Code.

(b) A person who enters into a contract under section 9.07 of the Revised Code to operate and manage a correctional facility in this state for out-of-state prisoners.

(3) "Private correctional facility" means a correctional facility that is operated by a contractor under a contract pursuant to section 9.06 or 9.07 of the Revised Code.

(B) No officer or employee of a contractor who is operating and managing a private correctional facility shall provide a prisoner in the private correctional facility access to or permit a prisoner in the private correctional facility to have access to the internet through the use of a computer, computer network, computer system, computer services, telecommunications service, or information service unless both of the following apply:

(1) The prisoner is participating in an approved educational program with direct supervision that requires the use of the internet for training or research purposes.

(2) The provision of and access to the internet is in accordance with rules promulgated by the department of rehabilitation and correction pursuant to section 5120.62 of the Revised Code.

(C)

(1) No prisoner in a private correctional facility shall access the internet through the use of a computer, computer network, computer system, computer services, telecommunications service, or information service unless both of the following apply:

(a) The prisoner is participating in an approved educational program with direct supervision that requires the use of the internet for training or research purposes.

(b) The provision of and access to the internet is in accordance with rules promulgated by the department of rehabilitation and correction pursuant to section 5120.62 of the Revised Code.

(2) Whoever violates division (C)(1) of this section is guilty of improper internet access, a misdemeanor of the first degree.

Effective Date: 06-08-2000; 11-05-2004 .