Shackling pregnant inmates presents a real threat to the life of the mother and her child. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Medical Association, and the United Nations have condemned the practice due to health risks.

This policy does not present a safety threat to the correctional officers or the public. Among the states that have restricted restraints on pregnant inmates, none have documented instances of women in labor or delivery escaping or causing harm to themselves, the public, security guards, or medical staff.

Please change your policy.