Albany, NY – In response to the announcement that a federal judge has approved a class-action settlement intended to overhaul the use of solitary confinement for the most vulnerable in New York’s prisons, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) issued the following statement:

“As conversations surrounding the use of solitary confinement unfold nationally, New York’s progress continues today with Judge Scheindlin’s approval of the settlement agreement. Knowing the impact prolonged periods of isolation have on mental health and safe re-entry, these reforms will go a long way in shifting the focus from incarceration to rehabilitation,” said Rozic.

Rozic is a member of the Assembly’s Committee on Correction and sponsor of legislation that would prohibit the use of solitary confinement for pregnant women. The bill passed the Assembly in January of this year and awaits Senate action.