A new report from New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang urges the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) to modernize its recordkeeping systems to comply with the HALT Solitary Confinement Act.

Released Monday, the report reveals significant challenges in implementing the law, which aims to limit the use and duration of solitary confinement in state prisons.

Lang's investigation found that DOCCS' antiquated recordkeeping systems impede accurate monitoring of critical metrics required by HALT, including the use and duration of segregated confinement, out-of-cell recreation time and program offerings.

Jerome Wright, co-director of the H.A.L.T. Solitary Campaign and formerly incarcerated, expressed frustration with the slow progress.

"Here we are, two and a half years later, and they're still not putting it into effect," Wright said.

Jennifer Scaife, executive director of the Correctional Association of New York, emphasized the importance of proper data collection.

"If you don't have the data, it's very difficult to confirm or refute findings about the implementation of HALT," Scaife stated.

In response to the report, DOCCS acknowledged the need for modernization and committed to enhancing its data management systems. The department expressed dedication to addressing the issues and improving overall HALT compliance.

The inspector general recommended urgent reforms, including aligning public reporting practices with HALT's requirements. While progress has been made, challenges remain in fully implementing the law.

Advocates stress that proper implementation and oversight are crucial for realizing the full benefits of the HALT Act and recognizing the harms of solitary confinement.