The Obama administration announced Monday night plans to ban solitary confinement for juvenile offenders in the federal prison system, according to a op-ed by President Obama published by the Washington Post.
President Obama said he would sign executive orders — which will affect 10,000 inmates — to begin reforming the criminal justice system. He mentioned studies linking solitary confinement to depression, alienation and withdrawal, and increases in a person’s likelihood of committing suicide.
“The United States is a nation of second chances, but the experience of solitary confinement too often undercuts that second chance. Those who do make it out often have trouble holding down jobs, reuniting with family and becoming productive members of society,” the president wrote.
Last summer, Obama asked the Justice Department to look into the use of solitary confinement for jailed minors. The review concluded that while there are times the practice is necessary, it should not be used as punishment for low-level infractions.
The federal government will also work to improve treatment for those in the prison system who are mentally ill.
Additionally, Obama asked Congress to pass reforms that would cut down the length of sentences for drug-related offenses and lower the $80 billion annual cost of America’s prison system.
