What States Still Allow Conjugal Visits in Prison?

Conjugal visits, formally called extended family visits or family reunion programs depending on the state, have become increasingly rare. As of now only six states still allow them: California, Connecticut, Mississippi, New Mexico, New York, and Washington. The federal prison system eliminated the program entirely and the vast majority of state systems have followed over the years.

Even in the states where conjugal visits remain available, eligibility is not automatic. Inmates typically need to be legally married or in a registered domestic partnership, housed at an appropriate security level, and in good disciplinary standing. The visits take place in designated private units on facility grounds and must be scheduled well in advance through the facility's approval process.

If the facility you are asking about is not in one of those six states, conjugal visits are simply not an option there regardless of the relationship or circumstances.

On regular visitation, most facilities have resumed normal in-person visits following the restrictions that were put in place during the pandemic, though some institutions still have modified protocols in place. The best way to get current information about visitation at a specific facility is to call directly and ask about their current visitation schedule, approval process, and any rules that apply to visitors. Each facility sets its own procedures and they can change, so going straight to the source gives you the most accurate and current answer.