AZ HB2691

Prohibits the Arizona Department of Corrections from placing inmates in isolated confinement unless there is reasonable cause to believe the inmate or another person would be at substantial risk of immediate and serious harm, with no less restrictive alternative available.

Bans isolated confinement based on protected characteristics including race, creed, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, pregnancy status, and other enumerated classes.

Limits isolated confinement to a maximum of 15 consecutive days or 20 days during any 60-day period, and restricts its use to facility-wide lockdowns, emergency confinement, medical isolation, and protective custody only.

Establishes due process requirements including an initial hearing within 72 hours, subsequent reviews every 15 days, inmate right to appear and be represented, an independent hearing officer, and written statements of reasons for decisions.

Requires correctional facilities to maintain isolated confinement cells with proper ventilation, lighting, temperature control, sanitation, and cleanliness, with the burden on the facility to prove justification by clear and convincing evidence.