AZ SB1617

Changes title of Arizona Revised Statutes Chapter 31, Chapter 5 from "Restraints on Pregnant Prisoners" to "Incarceration Restrictions" and adds comprehensive restrictions on the use of isolated confinement in state prisons and county jails.

Prohibits isolated confinement except when there is clear and convincing evidence an inmate poses substantial risk of serious harm; limits duration to 15 consecutive days or 20 days per 60-day period (10 consecutive/20 per 60 days during facility lockdowns).

Requires inmates to receive medical and mental health examinations before placement and daily thereafter; mandates initial hearing within 48-72 hours and reviews every five days; grants inmates right to appear, be represented, and appeal by an independent hearing officer.

Prohibits isolation of vulnerable populations including inmates under 21 or over 55, those with serious mental illness or developmental disabilities, pregnant or postpartum women, and LGBTQ+ inmates; requires immediate removal if vulnerability is discovered.

Requires the Department of Corrections director to develop policies, rules, and step-down programs by 90 days before January 1, 2021, and mandates quarterly public reports on isolated confinement use by facility without personally identifiable information; effective December 31, 2020.