Bill > H1740

This bill establishes reasonable limitations on the solitary confinement of inmates 21 years of age or younger in Massachusetts correctional institutions. The key provisions are: 1. Inmates over 21 years of age may be transferred to a segregated unit if their continued retention in the general population is detrimental to the institution's program, for a period determined by the Commissioner. Inmates 21 years of age or younger may be transferred to a segregated unit for up to 48 hours if they pose an immediate and substantial threat to the safety of other inmates or officers, and up to an additional 24 hours if the superintendent documents that the threat continues. 2. For enforcement of discipline, inmates over 21 years of age may be confined to an isolation unit for up to 15 days, while inmates 21 years old or younger may be confined to an isolation unit for up to 48 hours if they pose an immediate and substantial threat to the safety of other inmates or officers. 3. Jails and houses of correction may set aside isolation units, and inmates over 21 years of age may be confined to such units for up to 10 days, while inmates 21 years old or younger may be confined for up to 48 hours if they pose an immediate and substantial threat to the safety of other inmates or officers.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H1740