Oklahoma Senate Bill SB145

Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

Department of Corrections; requiring certain accommodations for certain inmates. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB145 will necessitate changes in how correctional facilities operate in terms of health accommodations for female inmates. It requires the Department of Corrections to develop and implement rules that ensure compliance with the new standards for lactating women. This law will likely improve the health outcomes for both the mother and the infant, as lactating women will be afforded opportunities to maintain their breastfeeding practices even while incarcerated, thereby aligning correctional practices with public health recommendations.

Summary

Senate Bill 145, introduced by Senator Hicks, focuses on the rights of lactating inmates within the Oklahoma correctional facilities. The bill mandates that correctional facilities provide adequate accommodations for the pumping, storage, and delivery of breast milk for inmates who are nursing. These accommodations include necessary pumping equipment, storage bags, refrigeration for breast milk, and a method for safe handling and delivery of the milk to a designated individual. This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the need for health considerations within the correctional system, particularly for women who are new mothers.

Contention

There may be some debate surrounding the implementation of SB145, particularly regarding the resources that facilities will need to allocate for these accommodations. Critics may argue about the costs and potential logistical challenges of instituting such measures, while supporters will emphasize the importance of supporting maternal health and recognizing the rights of women in the correctional system. The discussion could center around whether these measures adequately address the needs of all inmates or whether they create additional burdens on the correctional facilities.