(WENY) -- The New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is enhancing security measures in prisons by requiring visitors to undergo body imaging scans before entering the facilities.

A memo from Commissioner Daniel Martuscello, released late Sunday, March 2nd, outlines the updated policy. The aim is to prevent the introduction of contraband, such as weapons and drugs, into correctional facilities.

These changes take effect immediately. Under the new rules, all visitors participating in visitation programs, including the Family Reunion Program, must undergo body imaging scans. Visitors who refuse to be scanned will face additional screening under Directive #4404. If cleared, they will only be allowed a non-contact visit at facilities equipped for that type of visit.

The new policy is expected to restrict non-contact visits further, requiring facilities to install partitions to prevent direct contact between inmates and visitors. This means no physical embraces will be permitted at the beginning or end of a non-contact visit. Additionally, these visits will be limited to two hours, and "cross visits," where a single visitor visits multiple inmates in one session, will no longer be allowed.

The memo also states that there are exceptions to the body scanning requirement. Pregnant individuals or those with documented medical conditions that prevent them from being scanned will undergo alternative screening methods. If cleared, they may have a contact visit; if not, their visit could be limited to non-contact or denied for the day.

DOCCS emphasizes that these measures are necessary due to ongoing security concerns and the need to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates. The changes will remain in effect while the department continues to review security procedures.