Criminal Justice (Corrections)

This bill, the "ERASE Solitary Confinement Act of 2025," prohibits segregated confinement (solitary confinement) in District of Columbia jails and strictly limits the use of "safe cells" for non-emergency situations. It requires the Department of Corrections to ensure incarcerated people with mental health emergencies receive appropriate healthcare, defined as timely, respectful care meeting professional standards, and mandates the Department to create a plan to eliminate segregated confinement while reporting on its impacts. The law directly affects all people held in DC jails, particularly those with mental health needs who would previously be placed in solitary or restricted cells. Key mechanisms include banning disciplinary housing for punishment, guaranteeing minimum out-of-cell time (8 hours daily), and establishing clear healthcare rights for incarcerated individuals.

This bill (B 26-0198) amends the Residential Tranquility Act to protect residents from disruptive demonstrations and intimidation. It bans using sound amplifiers for demonstrations near homes between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. in residential zones, and makes it illegal to throw projectiles at homes with intent to cause fear or retaliate against occupants. The law directly affects demonstrators, neighbors, and individuals threatening residential properties, with penalties including fines up to $500 or 90 days in jail for violations. It also adds a minor administrative change to set December 7th as the expiration date for certain Council appointments. The bill is an emergency measure set to expire after 90 days.