A bill to safeguard the humane treatment of pregnant and postpartum women by ensuring the presumption of release and prohibiting shackling, restraining, and other inhumane treatment, and for other purposes. A bill to safeguard the humane treatment of pregnant and pos...

Bill 119 s 916, also known as the Pregnant Women in Custody Act, aims to protect the rights and well-being of pregnant and postpartum women who are in custody. The bill seeks to ensure that these women are treated with dignity and respect by establishing a presumption of release for pregnant and postpartum individuals, unless they pose a flight risk or a danger to the community. Additionally, the bill prohibits the shackling and restraining of pregnant and postpartum women, as these practices are considered inhumane and can pose serious risks to the health and safety of both the mother and the unborn child. The bill also includes provisions to ensure that pregnant and postpartum women have access to appropriate medical care, nutrition, and mental health services while in custody. Overall, the Pregnant Women in Custody Act aims to protect the rights and well-being of pregnant and postpartum women who are in custody, and to ensure that they are treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve.