Rhode Island Senate Bill S0617

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/7/23

Caption

Solitary Confinement Reform Act

Impact

The legislative intent of S0617 includes ensuring that prisoners in solitary confinement have access to basic necessities and opportunities for rehabilitation. Importantly, none of the rules established under this act should negate the safety and security needs of correctional facilities. The proposed oversight committee is composed of individuals with expertise in mental health, formerly incarcerated individuals, and advocates for incarcerated rights, thereby enabling informed assessments and advocacy for necessary changes in the system. This committee aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the corrections system regarding how restrictive housing is implemented.

Summary

Bill S0617, known as the Solitary Confinement Reform Act, seeks to reform the use of solitary confinement in Rhode Island's correctional facilities by establishing guidelines intended to ensure humane treatment of inmates placed in restrictive housing. The bill emphasizes that solitary confinement should only be utilized in situations that pose a direct threat to safety, and advocates for minimizing the duration and conditions of such confinement wherever possible. It also proposes the creation of a restrictive housing oversight committee, tasked with monitoring these conditions and the overall use of solitary confinement across the state’s correctional institutions.

Contention

Notably, this bill reflects ongoing debates about the effectiveness and ethics of solitary confinement practices. Proponents argue that reform is necessary to protect vulnerable populations, particularly those with mental health issues that may be exacerbated by isolation. Critics may express concerns about how rigorously the bill will be enforced and whether it can truly lead to a reduction in the use and duration of solitary confinement. Additionally, there could be resistance related to changes in administrative procedures within correctional facilities, especially from those who prioritize institutional safety as a reason for maintaining current solitary confinement practices.