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End Solitary Confinement: New Standards for Incarcerated Individuals

This act aims to end solitary confinement in federal facilities, introducing new standards for out-of-cell time and social interaction. The changes are intended to improve living conditions for incarcerated individuals, provide access to developmental programs, and reduce taxpayer costs while enhancing safety.
Key points
Solitary Confinement Ban: Individuals in federal facilities generally cannot be placed in solitary confinement, except for very limited, short-term emergency situations.
Increased Out-of-Cell Time: Requires at least 14 hours per day out of cell, including 7 hours for structured educational, vocational, therapeutic, and recreational activities.
Protection for Vulnerable Groups: Solitary confinement is prohibited for young people (under 25), older adults (over 55), individuals with disabilities, mental health needs, pregnant and postpartum women, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
Independent Oversight: An independent community monitoring body, including formerly incarcerated individuals and their families, will be established to oversee compliance and have access to facilities.
State Incentives: States and local entities that do not substantially comply with the new standards may face reductions in federal justice assistance grants.
Right to Sue: Individuals harmed by violations of the act can bring civil actions for damages, including for emotional pain and suffering.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_2477
Sponsor: Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA]
Process start date: 2025-07-28
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

End Solitary Confinement Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_2477.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-07-28.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Solitary Confinement Ban: Individuals in federal facilities generally cannot be placed in solitary confinement, except for very limited, short-term emergency situations.
  • Increased Out-of-Cell Time: Requires at least 14 hours per day out of cell, including 7 hours for structured educational, vocational, therapeutic, and recreational activities.
  • Protection for Vulnerable Groups: Solitary confinement is prohibited for young people (under 25), older adults (over 55), individuals with disabilities, mental health needs, pregnant and postpartum women, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
  • Independent Oversight: An independent community monitoring body, including formerly incarcerated individuals and their families, will be established to oversee compliance and have access to facilities.
  • State Incentives: States and local entities that do not substantially comply with the new standards may face reductions in federal justice assistance grants.
  • Right to Sue: Individuals harmed by violations of the act can bring civil actions for damages, including for emotional pain and suffering.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

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