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MD HB647

MD HB647
Correctional Services - Restrictive Housing


summary

Introduced
01/23/2025
In Committee
01/23/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
04/08/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Altering a certain definition of restrictive housing; limiting the amount of time that an individual may be placed in restrictive housing from approximately 22 hours to 17 hours in a 24-hour period; requiring all restrictive housing units to create the least restrictive environment necessary for certain purposes; prohibiting the placement of a certain member of a vulnerable population in restrictive housing for any period of time; etc.

AI Summary

This bill addresses restrictive housing practices in Maryland correctional facilities by implementing several key changes. The bill redefines restrictive housing as placement in a locked room or cell for 17 hours or more in a 24-hour period, reducing the previous standard of approximately 22 hours. It provides special protections for vulnerable populations, including pregnant individuals, minors, and individuals with certain mental health, age-related, or disability conditions, by severely limiting or prohibiting their placement in restrictive housing. The legislation requires that restrictive housing units create the least restrictive environment necessary for safety and facility security, and imposes strict limitations on the duration of restrictive housing, allowing no more than 15 consecutive days or 20 total days in a 60-day period. For pregnant incarcerated individuals, the bill establishes detailed protocols for any potential restrictive housing placement, including mandatory medical assessments, documentation requirements, and provisions for maintaining access to recreation, programming, and medical care. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Correctional Ombudsman conduct reviews of the implementation of these changes in October 2027 and October 2029, with the ability to make unannounced facility visits and review logs and surveys. The provisions are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, signaling a significant reform in Maryland's approach to managing incarcerated individuals in restrictive housing settings.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (6)

Last Action

House Judiciary Hearing (13:00:00 3/4/2025 ) (on 03/04/2025)

bill text


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