Research has overwhelmingly demonstrated the harmful effects of solitary confinement on children. Studies show that extended isolation worsens youth mental health, increases the risk of suicide, and leads to long-term psychological harm.

Not only is solitary confinement harmful, it is also an ineffective intervention. There is no evidence that solitary confinement improves safety in facilities, and in fact, it can actually lead to increased violence.

This proposed legislation will:

• Prohibit the use of solitary confinement as a form of discipline or punishment, for retaliation or coercion, or for reasons of staffing shortages or lack of administrative resources.
• Require the use of less restrictive interventions prior to the use of solitary confinement.
• Limit the amount of time young people can be in solitary confinement.
• Require appropriate communication with the child regarding reasons for placement in solitary confinement and what is needed to release them from confinement.
• Require notification of the child’s attorney of the use of solitary confinement.

Please join us in cosponsoring this common sense legislation.