New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A03217

Introduced
1/23/25  
Refer
1/23/25  

Caption

Relates to segregated confinement; provides that certain incarcerated individuals shall not be placed in a residential rehabilitation unit; makes related provisions.

Summary

Bill A03217 seeks to amend the New York Correction Law regarding the treatment and confinement of incarcerated individuals, particularly those with serious mental illnesses. It aims to redefine 'segregated confinement' and establish clearer guidelines for the treatment of individuals in such confinement, emphasizing the need for mental health assessments and appropriate care. The bill also repeals certain provisions related to residential rehabilitation units and mandates that individuals with serious mental illnesses should not be placed in segregated confinement without thorough evaluation and consideration of their mental health needs.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the current practices surrounding the confinement of incarcerated individuals, especially those with mental health issues. It would require the establishment of programs and facilities that provide adequate mental health treatment, ensuring that individuals are not subjected to prolonged segregated confinement without proper assessment. This could lead to changes in how correctional facilities manage mental health care and the overall treatment of incarcerated individuals, potentially reducing the number of individuals placed in segregated confinement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A03217 appears to be mixed, as indicated by the voting results from the Assembly Correction Committee, where it was held for consideration with a vote of 9 in favor and 3 against. This suggests that while there is some support for the bill's objectives, there are also concerns among committee members regarding its implications and effectiveness.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between ensuring safety within correctional facilities and providing adequate mental health care for incarcerated individuals. Some committee members may express concerns about the feasibility of implementing the proposed changes, particularly regarding the resources required for mental health assessments and treatment programs. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the potential impact of the bill on facility security and management.

Companion Bills

NY S02656

Same As Relates to segregated confinement; provides that certain incarcerated individuals shall not be placed in a residential rehabilitation unit; makes related provisions.

Previously Filed As

NY S03035

Relates to segregated confinement; provides that certain incarcerated individuals shall not be placed in a residential rehabilitation unit; makes related provisions.

NY A03196

Relates to segregated confinement; provides that certain incarcerated individuals shall not be placed in a residential rehabilitation unit; makes related provisions.

NY S02656

Relates to segregated confinement; provides that certain incarcerated individuals shall not be placed in a residential rehabilitation unit; makes related provisions.

NY HB2059

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; providing for segregated confinement; and establishing the Segregated Confinement Hearing Review Board.

NY S07215

Relates to the confinement of incarcerated individuals under the age of eighteen who shall not be placed in segregated confinement for any reason.

NY A10430

Relates to certain conduct that may place a person in segregated confinement; expands the criteria that can be used for calculating good behavior allowances.

NY S09487

Relates to certain conduct that may place a person in segregated confinement; expands the criteria that can be used for calculating good behavior allowances.

NY S09854

Prohibits the department of corrections from placing incarcerated individuals in two-person cells in residential rehabilitation units unless such incarcerated individuals agree.

NY A11071

Prohibits the department of corrections from placing incarcerated individuals in two-person cells in residential rehabilitation units unless such incarcerated individuals agree.

NY B26-0028

Eliminating Restrictive and Segregated Enclosures (“ERASE”) Solitary Confinement Act of 2025

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