H.B. 1280 Summary

• Restricts the use of solitary confinement in Hawaii's state-operated and state-contracted correctional facilities, prohibiting placement unless there is clear and convincing evidence that an inmate poses a substantial risk of immediate serious harm and less restrictive interventions would be insufficient.

• Prohibits solitary confinement for inmates who are members of a vulnerable population, including those 21 years old or younger, 60 years old or older, pregnant, having serious medical conditions, mental illness, developmental disabilities, or perceived to be LGBTQ+.

• Limits duration of solitary confinement to a maximum of 15 consecutive days or 20 days total during any 60-day period, except during facility-wide lockdowns; prohibits emergency confinement for more than 24 hours.

• Requires medical and mental health examinations before placement, initial hearings within 72 hours, reviews every 15 days, representation rights, and daily clinical evaluations; mandates proper cell conditions and access to recreation, education, and social interaction.

• Requires the department to develop written policies and procedures by July 1, 2024, including alternatives to solitary confinement, staff training, documentation, and quarterly public reporting on solitary confinement use by facility.