New York Assembly Bill A07414

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/25/25
• Refer: 3/25/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Prohibits segregated confinement of children in a detention facility; defines segregated confinement.

Summary

Bill A07414, known as the 'Keep Kids Out of Solitary Confinement Act', seeks to amend the Family Court Act and the Executive Law to prohibit the segregated confinement of children in detention facilities. Specifically, it defines 'segregated confinement' as any form of cell confinement for more than seventeen hours a day, with exceptions only for facility-wide emergencies or necessary medical and mental health treatment. The bill aims to protect the welfare of children in the justice system by eliminating the use of solitary confinement, which has been shown to have detrimental effects on their mental health and development.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the treatment of children in detention facilities across New York State. It would prohibit any form of segregated confinement, aligning state law with growing national and international standards that advocate against the use of solitary confinement for minors. This change would require detention facilities to adopt alternative methods for managing behavior and ensuring safety without resorting to isolation, potentially impacting staffing, training, and facility operations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A07414 appears to be supportive among child welfare advocates and mental health professionals, who argue that solitary confinement is harmful to children. However, there may be concerns from law enforcement and facility operators regarding how to manage safety and behavior without the option of segregated confinement. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill may still be in the early stages of consideration, with potential for further debate on its implications.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from stakeholders who believe that eliminating segregated confinement could compromise safety within detention facilities. Some may argue that there are circumstances where isolation is necessary to protect both the child and others in the facility. Conversely, advocates for children's rights and mental health may contend that the long-term psychological harm caused by solitary confinement far outweighs any short-term safety benefits. The balance between safety and humane treatment of minors in detention is likely to be a central theme in discussions about this bill.