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LR 247

Interim study to examine the continued use of restrictive housing and solitary confinement in Nebraska's correctional facilities

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ashlei Spivey

Nebraska will study current restrictive housing and solitary confinement to ensure legal compliance and alignment with evidence-based practices, focusing on vulnerable populations.

Notice of hearing for October 17, 2025
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Bill Summary · LR 247

Summary: Legislative Resolution LR 247 (2025)

Overview

LR 247 is a non-binding Legislative Resolution introduced in the Nebraska Legislature (109th Legislature, First Session) that designates an interim study to examine the continued use of restrictive housing and solitary confinement in Nebraska’s correctional facilities. The study emphasizes the treatment of vulnerable populations and compliance with existing state law. The Judiciary Committee is charged with conducting the study and reporting findings and recommendations.

  • Introduced: May 15, 2025
  • Primary sponsor: Spivey
  • Status: Notice of hearing scheduled for October 17, 2025
  • Legislative actions:
    • Referred to Executive Board (May 15, 2025)
    • Referred to Judiciary Committee (May 19, 2025)

Purpose and Scope

The resolution aims to assess whether restrictive housing and solitary confinement are being used in ways that align with Nebraska law and best practices, with particular attention to vulnerable populations. The study will consider:

1) Current Nebraska statutes, regulations, and departmental policies on restrictive housing and solitary confinement.
2) How often and under what circumstances vulnerable individuals are placed in restrictive housing.
3) Compliance with prior legislative reforms and any gaps between law and practice.
4) Potential benefits of reforms and the adoption of evidence-based practices.

The Judiciary Committee may consult a broad range of stakeholders to develop policy recommendations that improve safety and align with evidence-based standards. Stakeholders may include the Department of Correctional Services, advocacy groups, public health experts, system-impacted individuals, and other relevant groups.

Provisions and Impacts

  • Nature: Interim, non-binding study (resolution) rather than new law.
  • Focus: Evaluation of current practices, legal compliance, and opportunities for reform regarding restrictive housing and solitary confinement.
  • Outcome: A final report to the Legislative Council or Legislature outlining findings and recommendations for policy improvement and alignment with evidence-based best practices.

Committee and Process

  • Designated Committee: Judiciary Committee to conduct the interim study.
  • Report: The committee must present findings and recommendations after completing the study, directed to the Legislative Council or Legislature.

Who is Affected

  • Inmates and detainees in Nebraska correctional facilities, particularly those in or at risk of restrictive housing.
  • Department of Correctional Services and correctional staff.
  • Advocacy groups, health and public safety stakeholders, and other system-impacted individuals.

Timeline and Next Steps

  • May 15, 2025: Introduced; referred to Executive Board.
  • May 19, 2025: Referred to Judiciary Committee.
  • September 23, 2025: Notice of hearing published for October 17, 2025.
  • October 17, 2025: Hearing date to discuss the interim study.

This resolution sets the stage for a comprehensive review of restrictive housing practices in Nebraska, with an emphasis on protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring alignment with existing law and evidence-based policies.

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

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