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SB 65

ISOLATED CONFINEMENT RESTRICT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Mary Edly-Allen and 7 co-sponsors

Illinois SB 65 restricts use of isolated confinement in state prisons, limiting duration and circumstances for solitary housing of incarcerated individuals.

Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Karina Villa
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Bill Summary · SB 65

Legislative bill overview

SB 65 restricts the use of isolated confinement (solitary confinement) in Illinois correctional facilities. The bill establishes limitations on who can be placed in isolation, under what circumstances, and for how long. It aims to reduce the use of segregated housing units in state prisons.

Why is this important

Isolated confinement has documented mental and physical health consequences, particularly for prolonged periods. Illinois's correctional system currently uses isolation extensively, affecting hundreds of incarcerated individuals. This bill addresses growing bipartisan and medical consensus that isolation—especially extended isolation—causes severe harm and should be limited.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope: What constitutes "isolated confinement" and which facilities are covered (state prisons only, or county jails, youth facilities, etc.) may be debated
  • Security vs. restriction: Prison officials may argue certain inmates require isolation for safety, creating tension between security concerns and confinement restrictions
  • Implementation costs: Alternatives to isolation (mental health treatment, different housing units, staffing) require resources that may increase operational expenses
  • Victim/public safety concerns: Some argue isolation protects other inmates and staff from dangerous individuals, though evidence on effectiveness is mixed

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

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