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Bill

SB 461

TO COLLECT DATA REGARDING THE USE OF SOLITARY CONFINEMENT IN ARKANSAS PRISONS AND JAILS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jamie Scott

Arkansas bill requiring prisons and jails to collect and report comprehensive data on solitary confinement use, including frequency, duration, and inmate demographics.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · SB 461

Legislative bill overview

SB 461 would require Arkansas prisons and jails to systematically collect and report data on their use of solitary confinement, including frequency, duration, reasons for use, and demographic information of incarcerated individuals placed in isolation. The bill establishes a mechanism for monitoring this practice across the state's correctional system.

Why is this important

Solitary confinement is a controversial correctional practice with documented mental health impacts, yet comprehensive national data on its use remains limited. Collecting standardized data would allow Arkansas policymakers, advocates, and the public to understand the scope of the practice and identify potential issues such as disproportionate use against specific populations or inappropriate application to vulnerable individuals.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and administrative burden: Correctional facilities may argue that data collection and reporting requirements increase operational costs and require new tracking systems
  • Privacy and security concerns: Prison officials might claim that detailed documentation of solitary confinement practices could compromise facility security or inmate privacy
  • Behavioral incentives: Some correctional administrators may worry that transparency requirements could influence discretionary decisions about solitary placement independent of legitimate safety considerations

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

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