Bill > A03651

This bill incorporates the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules) into New York state correction law, establishing comprehensive guidelines for the humane treatment of incarcerated individuals. The bill outlines several key provisions, including limiting solitary confinement to no more than 15 consecutive days, ensuring medical professionals can report abuse, guaranteeing confidential complaint mechanisms for inmates without fear of retaliation, and establishing rights such as placement in facilities near home communities, in-person visitation, legal aid, and access to vocational and educational programs. The bill also mandates independent oversight of correctional institutions, requires individualized treatment and mental health support, ensures equitable compensation for work assignments, and explicitly prohibits cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment by correctional staff. Additionally, the legislation requires the department to create specific rules and regulations to implement these provisions, with the act set to take effect one year after becoming law. The goal is to improve the treatment, rehabilitation, and dignity of incarcerated individuals by aligning state practices with internationally recognized human rights standards.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3651