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HB 55

An Act making appropriations for the operating and capital expenses of the state's integrated comprehensive mental health program; and providing for an effective date.

34th Legislature (2025-2026)

HB 55 enhances inmate rights in Florida, ensuring proper ventilation, meal time, health supplies, and grievance procedures, while allowing conditional medical release for incapacitated inmates.

(H) EFFECTIVE DATE(S) OF LAW 7/1/25
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Bill Summary · HB 55

Summary of HB 55: Treatment of Inmates

Bill Number: HB 55
Title: Treatment of Inmates
Status: Now in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
Introduced: September 29, 2025
Effective Date: July 1, 2026

Purpose and Intent

HB 55 aims to enhance the treatment and rights of inmates within the Florida correctional system. The bill establishes specific rights for inmates, mandates the provision of these rights in writing, and introduces mechanisms for inmates to seek relief if their rights are violated. Additionally, it revises the definition of "permanently incapacitated inmate" to facilitate conditional medical release.

Key Provisions

Inmate Rights (Section 944.092)

The bill creates a new section in the Florida Statutes that outlines the following rights for inmates:

  1. Basic Rights:

    • Proper Ventilation: All housing units must have air conditioning or adequate air circulation systems. Units in use before July 1, 2026, that cannot be fitted for air conditioning must have sufficient exhaust and air circulators.
    • Sufficient Meal Time: Inmates are guaranteed a minimum of 20 minutes to eat each meal, with extensions allowed for medical reasons.
    • Emergency Food Supply: Correctional institutions must partner with community food banks to ensure adequate food supplies during emergencies.
    • Health Supplies: Inmates are entitled to necessary health products (e.g., sanitary napkins, soap, toothpaste) upon request, and medical staff must have personal protective equipment during health crises.

  2. Notice of Rights: The Department of Corrections is required to provide a written copy of these rights to each inmate upon their entry into the correctional system.

  3. Grievance Procedure: Inmates can file grievances if they believe their rights have been denied.

Conditional Medical Release (Amendment to Section 947.149)

The bill amends the definition of "permanently incapacitated inmate" to include individuals who:
- Have a condition that renders them permanently and irreversibly physically incapacitated.
- Have a physical disability or impairment that does not pose a danger to themselves or others.

Impact

This legislation is expected to significantly improve the living conditions and rights of inmates in Florida's correctional facilities. It will affect:
- Inmates: By ensuring they have access to basic rights and health supplies.
- Correctional Institutions: By requiring compliance with new standards for inmate treatment and grievance procedures.
- Medical Staff: By mandating the provision of necessary protective equipment during health crises.

Legislative Actions

  • October 7, 2025: Referred to the Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Justice Budget Subcommittee, and Judiciary Committee.
  • September 29, 2025: Bill filed.

Sponsors

  • Primary Sponsor: Hart
  • Cosponsor: Campbell

This summary provides an overview of HB 55, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and potential impact on the correctional system in Florida.

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

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