SJC Exchange Library

This article from the Prison Policy Initiative critiques the rollback of New York's HALT Solitary Confinement Act, highlighting that reinstating prolonged solitary confinement won't enhance prison safety. The HALT Act, enacted in 2022, aimed to limit solitary confinement to 15 consecutive days and protect vulnerable populations. However, in February 2025, approximately 15,000 correctional officers initiated an illegal 22-day strike, attributing deteriorating working conditions to the HALT Act. During the strike, at least seven incarcerated individuals died, and reports emerged of inadequate medical care and unsanitary conditions. Governor Kathy Hochul responded by suspending HALT protections, a move criticized as bypassing legislative procedures. The article argues that reverting to extended solitary confinement fails to address underlying issues like understaffing and may exacerbate prison safety concerns.