Single-Occupancy Cell Pilot Program.
The legislation is rooted in the belief that providing single-occupancy housing will enhance safety and reduce stress among incarcerated persons and correctional staff alike. Supporters argue that such an environment may decrease incidents of violence and improve participant engagement with rehabilitation programs. The bill also aligns with broader reform narratives seeking to modernize correctional management and address systemic issues contributing to recidivism. By mandating a detailed report to be submitted to both the Governor and the Legislature, the bill seeks to ensure transparency and accountability regarding its implementation and outcomes.
Assembly Bill 1140, titled the Single-Occupancy Cell Pilot Program of 2026, introduces a pilot program aimed at addressing issues within California's prison system by transitioning a portion of incarcerated individuals to single-occupancy cells. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation implement this program across four designated adult prison facilities by January 1, 2027. Specifically, the program will encompass 10% of the population at each facility, with criteria set forth for determining which individuals will be housed in these single cells. Key reporting metrics will be established to assess the effectiveness and impact of the pilot program over time.
Despite its progressive intentions, AB 1140 is not without contention. Critics raise concerns regarding the psychological impacts of single-occupancy cells, citing studies linking solitary confinement to increased risks of mental health issues, including anxiety and suicidal tendencies. There is apprehension about how the criteria for selecting inmates for these cells will be established and whether such decisions might disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the bill's proponents must demonstrate through empirical evidence that the shift to single-occupancy units genuinely contributes to rehabilitative outcomes without compromising the well-being of those who might experience isolation.