Judge Needs More Information in Prison Lawsuit Settlement

A federal judge says he wants more information before signing off on a proposed settlement between the Alabama prison system and inmates with disabilities.

The state agreed to change how inmates with disabilities are treated and housed.

U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson on Thursday directed lawyers to submit details of the proposed plan. Thompson said he wanted to see the submissions by April 13. He scheduled a hearing for April 15.

The state agreed to make inmate housing compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and ensure that inmates can access programs and facilities. The settlement noted Gov. Robert Bentley’s plan to build four new prisons. However, Alabama lawmakers must approve the project.

The claims are part of are part of a broader lawsuit over prison medical care.

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