Bill > A4510

This bill, known as the "Isolated Confinement Restriction Act," aims to limit the use of isolated confinement in New Jersey's correctional facilities to ensure humane treatment and prevent psychological harm. Isolated confinement is defined as holding an inmate alone or with others in a cell for approximately 20 hours or more daily with severely restricted activity and social interaction. The bill establishes that isolated confinement should only be used when there's a substantial risk of immediate serious harm to the inmate or others, and less restrictive measures are insufficient. It explicitly prohibits using isolated confinement for non-disciplinary reasons and requires a medical and mental health examination before placement. Vulnerable populations, including those 21 or younger, 55 or older, with mental illness, developmental disabilities, serious medical conditions, pregnant individuals, or those with significant sensory impairments, are generally protected from isolated confinement, with specific alternative placements outlined. The bill also sets time limits for isolated confinement, mandates daily evaluations by a clinician for inmates in isolation, and requires that confinement cells be properly maintained. Exceptions are made for facility-wide lockdowns, emergency confinement (limited to 24 hours with immediate evaluations), medical isolation determined by a physician, and protective custody under specific conditions. The Commissioner of Corrections is tasked with developing policies, procedures, and regulations to implement these restrictions, including training for staff, documentation requirements, and public reporting of data on the use of isolated confinement. The act will take effect 13 months after enactment, with provisions for advance administrative action.