Correctional Services - Restrictive Housing

SB 702 restricts the placement of pregnant incarcerated individuals in restrictive housing (locked cells for 17+ hours daily) in Maryland correctional facilities, barring most involuntary placements. It allows exceptions only for immediate risks of physical harm, flight, or communicable disease spread that cannot be managed otherwise, requiring facility staff to document why less restrictive options weren't possible. The bill mandates medical assessments every 8 hours, housing in the least restrictive setting, and specialized treatment plans developed by women’s health staff. It also requires written reviews of placements every 24 hours, detailed reporting to oversight officials, and specific infirmary care protocols for pregnant individuals.