Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Corrections
 
Board
State Board of Local and Regional Jails
 
chapter
Minimum Standards for Jails and Lockups [6 VAC 15 ‑ 40]
Action Amend Minimum Standards for Jails and Lockups to add requirements on restraint of pregnant offenders
Stage NOIRA
Comment Period Ended on 2/29/2012
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2/1/12  9:10 pm
Commenter: Susan Mariner

Shackling of Pregnant Women
 

Restraining pregnant inmates presents a real danger to the health of the mother and fetus.  As a mother myself, I needed to be able to move around freely during labor and recovery.  I urge you also take into account the newborn, whose healthy development depends on strong postpartum bonding with mom   The risk of shackling during pregnancy, birth, and recovery is too high.  I respectfully request that you restrict the shackling of pregnant inmates. 
 

CommentID: 21826