The bill aims to improve public safety and inmate welfare in Minnesota jails and prisons by significantly limiting the use of segregated housing, particularly prohibiting solitary confinement. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 243.521, to define various types of segregation, such as administrative and disciplinary segregation, and sets forth specific conditions for inmates placed in these settings. Key provisions include ensuring adequate living conditions, access to medical care, personal hygiene items, and opportunities for communication and recreation. The bill also mandates mental health screenings for inmates in segregation, with documented treatment plans, and introduces incentives for positive behavior to facilitate reintegration into the general population.

Additionally, the legislation requires annual reporting on inmates placed in segregation, particularly those close to their release dates, detailing the reasons for their placement and efforts to utilize less restrictive options. It emphasizes the protection of vulnerable populations by restricting their placement in segregation without proper approval and consultation, limits temporary segregation to five business days, and outlines a notice and hearing process for inmates facing segregation. The bill mandates the creation of updated segregation policies by January 1, 2026, which will be subject to public comment, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in the treatment of inmates.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 243.521