Nebraska hearing on LB 99 focuses on limiting restrictive housing and banning involuntary double‑bunking

Senator Ashley Spivey on Thursday introduced LB 99 to the Judiciary Committee, proposing limits on the use of restrictive housing in Nebraska prisons and a ban on involuntary double‑bunking in cells designed for a single person.

The bill would cap consecutive days in restrictive housing at 15 and bar placing two people in a cell designed for one unless both inmates consent. Supporters told the committee that prolonged isolation harms mental health and public safety; the Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) argued the proposal could be unsafe or unworkable in the state’s existing facilities.

LB 99’s sponsor, Senator Ashley Spivey (District 13), opened by saying restrictive housing — commonly called solitary confinement — can produce severe psychological harm and worsen reintegration outcomes. “Restrictive housing confines individuals to a cell for the majority of the day with minimal human contact,” Spivey said, and cited research linking even short periods of isolation to increased anxiety, depression and suicidality. Spivey pointed the committee to an Inspector General’s report showing 42 people spent more than 180 days in restrictive housing and said nine people had been held for more…