PREGNANT PRISONERS-RESTRAINTS
The bill mandates that county departments of corrections provide comprehensive support to pregnant prisoners, including access to supplemental nutrition of at least 300 calories per day during pregnancy and lactation. Additionally, it requires that prisoners receive educational programming covering prenatal care, hygiene, and the effects of drug exposure on fetuses. These measures aim to ensure that the health and well-being of both the mother and child are prioritized, particularly in the stressful environment of incarceration.
SB3600 is a significant legislative bill introduced in Illinois that focuses on the treatment and rights of pregnant prisoners. The bill amends existing laws to establish clearer guidelines regarding the management of pregnant individuals within correctional facilities. Key changes include modifying definitions related to pregnancy and ensuring that the provisions apply across all counties, not just larger jurisdictions. This broadens the impact of the legislation, emphasizing the need for a uniform approach across different regions in Illinois.
A notable aspect of SB3600 is its firm stance against the use of restraints on pregnant prisoners. It explicitly prohibits leg irons and shackles during labor and establishes that any restraints must be the least restrictive possible, only applied in extraordinary circumstances to ensure the safety of the prisoner, child, and staff. This has sparked discussions regarding the balance between security measures in correctional facilities and the humane treatment of vulnerable populations, particularly in the context of healthcare services.
Furthermore, the bill calls for annual reporting by sheriffs to document the number of pregnant prisoners and occurrences of deliveries or miscarriages while in custody. This transparency is intended to ensure ongoing monitoring and improvement of conditions for pregnant prisoners while holding correctional institutions accountable for their practices. Overall, SB3600 represents a progressive step towards acknowledging and addressing the unique needs of pregnant individuals in a correctional setting.