This bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Corrections (DOC) to report incidents of suicide and self-harm among inmates housed in Restorative Housing Units (RHUs). The legislation amends existing law to require the DOC to include specific data in its quarterly reports, such as the incidence of emergency confinement, self-harm, suicide, and assault within these units. The reports must be anonymized, ensuring that no personally identifiable information is disclosed, and should also provide demographic information regarding the inmate population, including age, sex, gender identity, ethnicity, and mental health status.

Additionally, the bill modifies the regulations governing isolated confinement to enhance oversight and accountability. It emphasizes the need for less restrictive interventions, staff training on mental health issues, and documentation of decisions related to isolated confinement. The aim is to ensure that vulnerable populations are treated appropriately and that the use of isolated confinement is limited to necessary circumstances. This legislation is in response to recommendations from the Office of the Corrections Ombudsperson and is set to take effect 90 days after enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4-82.11