Bill > HB1322

This bill restricts the use of solitary confinement in Hawaii's correctional facilities by establishing comprehensive guidelines and limitations. The legislation defines solitary confinement as confinement in a cell for 20 or more hours per day with severely restricted activities and social interactions. The bill mandates that solitary confinement can only be used in limited circumstances, such as facility-wide lockdowns, emergency confinement, medical isolation, or protective custody, and requires extensive procedural safeguards. Notably, the bill prohibits placing certain vulnerable populations (such as individuals who are under 21, over 60, have mental or physical disabilities, are pregnant, or are perceived to be LGBTQ+) in solitary confinement. The Department of Corrections must develop detailed policies by July 1, 2026, including alternatives to solitary confinement, staff training, documentation requirements, and quarterly public reporting. The Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission will review all solitary confinement placements to ensure fairness and compliance with best practices. The legislation is grounded in extensive research documenting the severe psychological and physical harm caused by prolonged isolation, and aims to create more humane and rehabilitative corrections practices.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1322&year=2026