I urge the Board of Corrections to take additional actions to remove restrainsts on pregnant inmates, particularly in local and regional facilities, which were not covered by the actions already taken to limit such restraints.

The shackling of pregnant women poses a great health risk to them and their fetuses, especially during labor and delivery when women most need freedom of movement and medical staff may need to conduct emergency procedures.

It is my understanding that none of the states that have restricted shackling of pregnant inmates have documented instances of women in labor or delivery escaping or harming themselves, the public, security guards, or medical staff.

Thank you for your consideration.