Bill > H0185

This bill establishes a set of basic rights for inmates in Florida's correctional system, creating new statutory provisions that address several key areas of inmate welfare. The bill requires correctional facilities to provide proper ventilation, including air conditioning or air cooling systems in housing units, with exceptions for older facilities that cannot be easily retrofitted. Inmates are guaranteed a minimum of 20 minutes to eat each meal, with potential extensions for medical reasons. The legislation mandates that correctional institutions develop emergency food supply partnerships with local food banks to ensure continuous food access during natural disasters or other emergencies. Additionally, the bill requires the department to provide necessary personal protective equipment for staff and inmates during health crises and to supply health products like sanitary napkins, tampons, soap, and toothpaste upon inmate request. Each inmate must receive a written copy of these rights upon entering the correctional system, and they are granted the ability to file grievances if they believe their rights have been violated. The bill also modifies the definition of "permanently incapacitated inmate" for conditional medical release purposes, expanding the criteria to include physical disabilities or impairments that do not pose a danger to the inmate or others. These provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, aiming to improve living conditions and basic rights for incarcerated individuals.

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/185