1. What is this bill?

This bill aims to amend the correction law to promote the health, safety, and human rights of incarcerated pregnant individuals, incarcerated birthing parents, and their children. It replaces Section 611 of the correction law with new, more comprehensive provisions.

2. Why is this bill being proposed?

The bill recognizes that incarcerated pregnant individuals face unique health risks and that their rights and those of their children may be compromised by conditions of confinement and correctional policies. It seeks to address these issues and ensure proper care and rights for this vulnerable population.

3. What problems does this bill address?

• - Lack of appropriate prenatal, obstetric, and postpartum care for incarcerated pregnant individuals

• - Inadequate provisions for the care of children born to incarcerated individuals

• - Potential human rights violations of pregnant individuals and birthing parents in correctional settings

4. Key Provisions of the Bill:

• a) Comprehensive prenatal care and medical treatment for pregnant incarcerated individuals

• b) Appropriate medical care during labor and delivery

• c) Substance use disorder treatment and mental health support

• d) Proper nutrition, housing, and living conditions for pregnant individuals

• e) Postpartum care and support for birthing parents

• f) Provisions for breastfeeding and child care within correctional facilities

• g) Prohibition of segregated confinement and shackling for pregnant individuals and recent birthing parents

• h) Rights and protections for children born to incarcerated individuals

• i) Enforcement through uniform minimum standards to be issued by the department

5. Impact and Significance:

• - Improves health outcomes for incarcerated pregnant individuals and their children

• - Enhances human rights protections in correctional settings

• - Promotes bonding between incarcerated birthing parents and their children

• - Establishes clear guidelines for the care of pregnant individuals and children in correctional facilities

6. Talking Points for Advocacy Day:

• - "This bill ensures that incarcerated pregnant individuals receive the care they need for their health and their baby's health."

• - "By protecting the rights of incarcerated birthing parents and their children, we're investing in families and reducing long-term societal costs."

• - "This legislation aligns our correctional practices with medical recommendations and human rights standards."

7. Possible Questions to Ask Legislators:

• - "What is your position on improving healthcare and rights for incarcerated pregnant individuals and their children?"

• - "How do you think this bill might impact recidivism rates and long-term outcomes for families affected by incarceration?"

• - "Are you willing to support or co-sponsor this bill to ensure better care and rights for this vulnerable population?"