The bill seeks to reform the use of segregated housing in Minnesota jails and prisons by prohibiting solitary confinement and establishing new regulations for the treatment of inmates in such settings. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 243.521, to define various types of segregation, including administrative and disciplinary segregation, and outlines the necessary conditions for inmates placed in these environments. Key provisions include ensuring adequate living conditions, access to medical care, personal hygiene items, and opportunities for communication with the outside world. The bill also mandates mental health screenings for inmates in segregation and prioritizes their treatment, while introducing incentives for inmates to reintegrate into the general population.

Furthermore, the legislation emphasizes transparency and accountability by requiring facilities to report annually on the use of segregation, particularly for inmates nearing release. It establishes new rules for administrative and disciplinary segregation, limiting the duration based on the nature of the infraction and ensuring vulnerable populations are not placed in segregated housing without oversight. The bill outlines a notice and hearing process for inmates facing segregation, ensuring they are informed of their rights. Additionally, it mandates the creation of updated segregation policies by January 1, 2026, in compliance with the Administrative Procedure Act, and requires the commissioner to facilitate inmate input on these policies. Overall, the bill aims to enhance inmate treatment and reduce reliance on segregation as a disciplinary measure.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 243.521