Correctional Services – Restrictive Housing – Individuals With Developmental or Intellectual Disabilities

SB 268 requires clinical professionals (licensed mental health providers) to assess new inmates at Maryland state correctional facilities for developmental or intellectual disabilities during intake. If assessed, facilities must limit restrictive housing (locked in a cell for 22+ hours daily) to 15 consecutive days within any 30-day period for these individuals, unless they commit a prohibited act like causing serious injury, making credible threats with prior violence, or possessing weapons. The bill excludes medical isolation, suicide watch, and self-requested protective custody from the restrictive housing definition. It applies only to Maryland state correctional facilities and takes effect October 1, 2026.