California AB1646, known as the Hug Act, ensures youth in juvenile facilities can engage in consensual physical contact with visitors.

California AB1646, the Hug Act, mandates that youth in juvenile facilities have the right to engage in consensual physical contact with visitors during in-person visits, including hugging and holding hands. Physical contact can only be restricted if there is a significant safety and security concern or a court-ordered restriction. Any limitations must be documented and made available to the Division of the Ombudsperson. The act emphasizes the importance of physical touch for the health and well-being of young people, aiming to support their development and successful reintegration.

California AB1646, known as the Hug Act, ensures youth in juvenile facilities can engage in consensual physical contact with visitors.

California AB1646, the Hug Act, mandates that youth in juvenile facilities have the right to engage in consensual physical contact with visitors during in-person visits, including hugging and holding hands. Physical contact can only be restricted if there is a significant safety and security concern or a court-ordered restriction. Any limitations must be documented and made available to the Division of the Ombudsperson. The act emphasizes the importance of physical touch for the health and well-being of young people, aiming to support their development and successful reintegration.