This bill amends several sections of the Nebraska Treatment and Corrections Act to update definitions and provisions related to restrictive housing and solitary confinement. Key changes include the definition of "restrictive housing," which now specifies that it involves limited contact with other offenders and less than ten hours of out-of-cell time per day, replacing the previous standard of twenty-four hours per week. The bill also introduces a new definition for "solitary confinement," which is characterized by confinement for at least twenty-two hours per day in an individual cell that restricts visual and auditory contact with others and limits access to natural light and group activities.

Additionally, the bill establishes new regulations regarding the use of restrictive housing, including a maximum duration of fifteen consecutive days for any inmate placed in such conditions. It prohibits the placement of vulnerable populations in restrictive housing and mandates the development of individualized transition plans for inmates returning to the general population. The bill also requires the Department of Correctional Services to report annually on the demographics and circumstances of inmates held in restrictive housing, ensuring transparency and accountability in the treatment of incarcerated individuals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 83-170, 83-173.03