The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) has established a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for inmate visitation, designed to foster positive relationships between inmates and their families or significant others. This policy underscores that visitation is a privilege rather than a right, and it sets forth specific guidelines to ensure a secure and comfortable environment for all parties involved. The SOP applies to various correctional facilities, including state prisons, county correctional institutions, probation detention centers, transitional centers, and private prisons. It outlines the roles of immediate and extended family members, as well as significant relationship visitors, who can provide essential support to inmates. The document also specifies procedures for the visitation process, including the maintenance of visitation areas and the scheduling of visits. Additionally, it includes provisions for emergency contact information during the diagnostic process and establishes a visiting schedule that accommodates both inmates and their visitors. The SOP aims to balance the need for security with the goal of rehabilitation, thereby contributing to the overall well-being of inmates and their families.