HB 608 – Dignity for Women Who are Incarcerated Act

Primary House Sponsors: Rep. Kristin Baker, MD (R-Cabarrus); Rep. Ashton Clemmons (D-Guilford); Rep. Donna White (R-Johnston); Rep. Kyle Hall (R-Rockingham, Stokes, Surry)

 

Summary

This bill enacts the Dignity for Women Who are Incarcerated Act. This Act:

  • Prohibits the use of restraints on pregnant incarcerated woman during the second and third trimester of pregnancy, during labor and delivery, and during the six-week postpartum recovery period except in certain specified instances.
  • Prohibits invasive body cavity searches of an incarcerated woman who is pregnant or in the postpartum recovery period except in certain specified instances.
  • Prohibits the use of restrictive housing for incarcerated women who are pregnant or are in the six-week postpartum recovery period except in certain specified instances.
  • Requires the Department of Public Safety to ensure that sufficient menstrual products are available for all female incarcerated persons who have an active menstrual cycle.

 

Movement

Filed – 4/20/21