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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2/8/12  12:12 pm
Commenter: Rebecca Swope, CURE-Women Incarcerated

Banning the practice of shackling during labor and delivery
 

I delivered my only child 7 years ago on January 19, 2005 in Laurel, Maryland, shackled to the bed by hand, waist and ankle. Thank God I had a smooth, fast delivery and did not find myself shackeled for hours on end, like some women are, as if they are animals. The experience was inhumane to say the least.  No woman should ever have to endure such a traumatizing  ordeal when giving birth to a child. I stand as a strong advocate in support of legistation banning the practice of shackling during labor and delivery. I am proud to know the state I reside, PA, has stepped up and ended this practice. Please put an end to this inhumane act in the Commonealth of Virginia.  

CommentID: 21986