BOP Program Statement 5335.02 § 1

It is the responsibility of the Bureau of Prisons (Bureau) to house each inmate in the least

restrictive environment to ensure all staff and inmates are safe, and the security of the institution

is maintained. Inmates with a serious mental illness (SMI) sometimes require a more restrictive

environment to maintain their safety or to prevent harm to others or themselves, or to prevent

damage to property. However, inmates diagnosed with an SMI are more vulnerable to

psychological and physical deterioration in secure settings and require special accommodations.

Therefore, placement in an SMHU must be used only when necessary and must include

accommodations that support mental health and a timely return to a less restrictive setting.

Single-cell placement will be avoided wherever possible in favor of housing that offers more

opportunities to interact with peers.

The purpose of this program statement is to set minimum requirements for standards, procedures,

and programming in SMHUs. Each institution with an SMHU must meet these minimum

requirements. This policy applies to SMHUs at Medical Referral Centers (MRCs), Secure PTPs,

5335.02 3/19/2026 PROPERTY OF US GOVERNMENT 2

and Secure PTUs. No other secure mental health units are authorized without a policy waiver

approved by the RSD. Institutions who cannot meet the minimum requirements of this policy

may request a policy waiver in accordance with the Program Statement Directives Management

Manual.

a. Program Objectives.

■ Provide safe and secure restrictive settings for inmates with SMIs.

■ Establish minimum programming and staffing requirements in SMHUs with the goal of

supporting inmate mental health and their return to less restrictive settings.

b. Institution Supplement. None required.