Hundreds of people in Washington’s prisons are currently in solitary confinement, living in conditions recognized as torture by the United Nations. This inhumane treatment disproportionately impacts people of color, has been shown to have devastating and lasting psychological effects, and should not be tolerated in our state.
No one should be forced to live in solitary confinement, and the elimination of the practice would save the state money and result in better health for incarcerated people, prison staff and the community.
The Washington State legislature should pass House Bill 1312 and end the use of prolonged solitary to ensure a criminal legal system that emphasizes rehabilitation over excessive punishment.
Click here for information on the bill