CA AB3228

Requires private detention facility operators to comply with detention standards of care and confinement specified in their operational contracts with governmental entities.

Defines "private detention facility" as a detention facility operated by a private, for-profit entity under contract with a governmental entity, excluding juvenile facilities, mental health treatment facilities, educational services, residential care facilities, school disciplinary detention, quarantine facilities, and temporary private security detentions.

Allows individuals injured by tortious actions that violate detention care standards to bring civil lawsuits against private detention facility operators or their agents.

Permits courts to award prevailing plaintiffs reasonable attorney's fees and costs, including expert witness fees, in civil actions brought under this chapter.

Approved by Governor September 27, 2020.