Correctional Services - Restrictive Housing - Limitations (Maryland Mandela Act)
One significant aspect of HB385 is its emphasis on limiting the duration and conditions under which an individual may be subjected to restrictive housing. The bill prohibits placing individuals in restrictive housing for more than 60 days within a year and stipulates that those found guilty of lesser infractions should not face disciplinary segregation beyond verbal warnings. By imposing these restrictions, the bill aims to create a more humane correctional environment, reducing the risks associated with prolonged isolation, which can adversely affect mental health and rehabilitation efforts.
House Bill 385, titled the Maryland Mandela Act, addresses the management and procedures concerning restrictive housing within correctional facilities. The bill establishes comprehensive guidelines for the supervision and care of incarcerated individuals placed in restrictive housing, focusing on the need for personnel training in trauma-informed care and the constitutional rights of incarcerated individuals. It mandates that all staff involved in the care of those in restrictive housing complete a minimum of 40 hours of initial training, with additional annual training requirements, ensuring that personnel are equipped to manage the unique challenges associated with restrictive circumstances.
The bill has generated significant dialogue among lawmakers and advocacy groups regarding the balance between maintaining safety in correctional facilities and ensuring the rights and wellbeing of incarcerated individuals. Proponents argue that the structured limits on restrictive housing placement are essential for improving inmate conditions and reducing recidivism. Meanwhile, opponents may voice concerns over the potential implications for facility safety and management, especially when dealing with individuals who may pose security risks. This ongoing discourse highlights the broader conversation about prison reform and the need for systematic changes in how correctional systems operate.