Assembly Bill 740 introduces new regulations regarding the use of solitary confinement in state prisons and county jails. The bill stipulates that an inmate may not be placed in solitary confinement unless at least 60 days have passed since their last confinement. Additionally, the duration of solitary confinement is limited to a maximum of 10 days. The bill mandates that within two hours of confinement, inmates must receive personal items such as a book of their choice, writing materials, hygiene products, and, if applicable, access to their prenatal care team. Furthermore, it requires that inmates have access to structured programming and visitation opportunities, including audiovisual means, to ensure their well-being during confinement.
The bill also renumbers and amends existing statutes related to solitary confinement, specifically sections 302.10 and 302.40. It creates new subsections that outline the responsibilities of prison wardens and county jail sheriffs in providing necessary items and services to inmates in solitary confinement. These provisions aim to enhance the treatment of inmates and ensure they maintain connections with their support systems while in confinement. Overall, the bill seeks to reform solitary confinement practices to promote humane treatment and support for inmates.