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Bill

H 1959

An Act establishing reasonable limitations on the solitary confinement of inmates 21 years of age or younger

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dave Rogers

Bill H 1959 limits solitary confinement for inmates 21 and younger to 48 hours, promoting mental health and fair treatment in Massachusetts correctional facilities.

Hearing rescheduled to 11/18/2025 from 01:00 PM-08:00 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 1959

Summary of Bill H 1959: An Act Establishing Reasonable Limitations on the Solitary Confinement of Inmates 21 Years of Age or Younger

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 1959 aims to establish specific limitations on the use of solitary confinement for inmates aged 21 years or younger in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill seeks to address concerns regarding the mental health and rehabilitation of young inmates by restricting the duration and conditions under which they can be placed in solitary confinement.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes amendments to Chapter 127 of the General Laws, specifically focusing on the treatment of young inmates in correctional institutions. The main provisions include:

  1. Segregation Authorization:

    • Inmates over 21 years of age can be transferred to a segregated unit for an indefinite period if their presence in the general population is deemed detrimental.
    • Inmates aged 21 or younger can only be placed in a segregated unit for a maximum of 48 hours if they pose an immediate and substantial threat to others. After this period, they may only remain in segregation for an additional 24 hours if documented evidence supports the continued threat.

  2. Disciplinary Isolation:

    • Inmates over 21 may be confined to an isolation unit for up to 15 days for disciplinary reasons.
    • Inmates aged 21 or younger may be confined for a maximum of 48 hours for similar reasons, contingent upon posing an immediate threat.

  3. Isolation Unit Regulations:

    • Superintendents of jails or houses of correction can designate isolation units but must inform relevant authorities if an inmate over 21 is confined for more than 3 days, and cannot exceed 10 days for any single offense.
    • Young inmates can only be held in isolation for 48 hours under the same conditions as mentioned above.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Inmates aged 21 years or younger in correctional facilities, aiming to protect their mental health and ensure fair treatment.
- Correctional facility superintendents and staff, who will need to adapt their practices to comply with the new limitations on solitary confinement.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room A-1.
  • Legislative Actions:
    • Referred to the Committee on The Judiciary on the same day it was introduced.
    • The Senate has concurred with the bill.

Conclusion

Bill H 1959 represents a significant step towards reforming the treatment of young inmates in Massachusetts correctional facilities. By imposing strict limitations on solitary confinement, the bill aims to promote rehabilitation and safeguard the mental well-being of vulnerable populations within the justice system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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