This bill changes how prisons in Ontario treat inmates. It stops the use of segregation (solitary confinement) and sets rules to make sure inmates are treated humanely. The bill requires at least 20% of inmate beds in each prison to be in special mental health units. It also creates new rules against cruel and inhumane treatments, such as excessive restraints or sensory deprivation. Inmates in restrictive confinement still get access to programs and their rights are protected. The bill will become law gradually, with some parts starting six months after approval.
If you or a family member are in a correctional facility in Ontario, these rules aim to protect your human rights. It guarantees that inmates will not be kept in solitary for long periods or treated cruelly. The requirement for mental health units means inmates with mental health needs will have better access to care. The bill also makes sure all treatments are humane and that inmates’ rights are respected during confinement. These changes could lead to fewer cases of mistreatment and better care in prisons.
The bill does not specify the total cost of implementing these changes. It does require new or renovated facilities to allocate at least 20% of beds to mental health support units and to follow new rules on inmate treatment. Data unavailable on the overall cost to the government for building or modifying facilities or training staff to follow the new rules.
Supporters say the bill improves prison conditions. They argue it ends the use of segregation, which they see as inhumane. They believe the mental health support units will help inmates with mental health issues receive proper care. Proponents also say the new rules will reduce abuse and promote fair treatment, aligning correctional practices with human rights standards.
Opponents might argue that ending segregation could create safety challenges in prisons. They may be concerned about the cost and logistics of building mental health units in all facilities. Some also worry that less restrictive confinement might make it harder to keep prisons secure. They might say the bill could require significant changes that are costly or difficult to implement quickly, possibly affecting the safety of staff and inmates.