The proposed "Restrictive Confinement Oversight Act" establishes new regulations aimed at improving the conditions and oversight of restrictive housing in correctional facilities. Key provisions include definitions for terms related to confinement, such as "basic necessities," "cell," and "disciplinary confinement." The bill mandates that all prisoners receive a minimum of two hours outside their cells each day, with those not in disciplinary confinement entitled to at least three hours outside their cells. Additionally, it ensures that prisoners are not denied access to basic necessities for more than 24 hours during transitions between housing modules.

To enhance oversight, the bill creates a "restrictive housing oversight committee" within the public safety grant administration office, which will monitor the use of restrictive housing and ensure compliance with the new regulations. This committee will consist of five members with relevant experience, including individuals who have been previously incarcerated, representatives from nonprofit organizations, and mental health professionals. The committee will appoint an ombudsperson to investigate complaints regarding the health, safety, welfare, and rights of incarcerated individuals.

The bill also requires the Department of Corrections to issue an annual report detailing the status of prisoners in restrictive housing, the nature of infractions leading to their confinement, and demographic information. Furthermore, it clarifies that individuals under the custody of the Department of Corrections are considered members of the public for the purposes of the chapter, while maintaining necessary security protocols. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 25, 2025.

Statutes affected:
5927: 42-35-1