Limits Isolated Confinement in State Prisons
Virginia · HB35 · Introduced Dec 23, 2025
Why it matters
People held in restrictive housing would get more time out of their cells, regular reviews, and a chance to appeal. Prisons would need to document reasons and timelines for each placement.
What it does
- Bars placing people in isolated confinement for 17 or more hours a day unless specific reasons apply
- Caps most isolated confinement at 15 consecutive days and 15 total days in any 60-day period
- Requires a review every two business days and a formal ruling within 24 hours
- Requires at least four hours a day of out-of-cell programs for people in restrictive housing
- Limits lockdowns that cut out-of-cell programs to seven days unless approved by a regional administrator
Status
Latest action (2026-07-21): Continued from last session
About this bill
Would ban isolated confinement in state prisons, with some exceptions. Prisons must review each placement every two business days and give a medical and mental health check within one working day.
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Prisoner advocates would likely say the limits protect people from long periods of isolation. They would argue regular reviews and out-of-cell time improve safety and mental health.
💬 The case against
Some prison staff groups would likely say the limits could make it harder to keep order. They may argue the paperwork and reviews take time away from security.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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