SB623
Concerning The Treatment Of Female Inmates And Detainees In Correctional Or Detention Facilities; And To Amend The Law Regarding The Treatment Of An Inmate Or Detainee Who Is Pregnant Or Has Recently Delivered A Child.
Last Action (April 3, 2025): Sine Die adjournment
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
Senate Bill 623 amends Arkansas law regarding the treatment of pregnant and postpartum inmates and detainees in correctional facilities. It mandates that facilities provide specific prenatal nutrition, including a minimum of 2,500 calories per day, as well as necessary hygiene products and undergarments. The bill grants pregnant inmates access to prenatal care, parenting classes, and substance abuse treatment. Additionally, it requires that a female staff member or medical provider be present during medical examinations of pregnant individuals unless otherwise provided for by the facility. The bill further restricts the use of restrictive housing for pregnant inmates or those who have delivered within the previous 30 days, permitting it only under specific conditions involving safety threats. Finally, it requires that pregnant inmates be transported in vehicles equipped with seatbelts.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries are pregnant and postpartum inmates and detainees within the Arkansas correctional system, who will receive enhanced medical care, specific nutritional standards, and improved living accommodations. These populations also gain increased protections regarding their placement in restrictive housing and higher standards for safety during transport.
Who Might Suffer?
Correctional and detention facilities may be negatively impacted by the increased operational and administrative costs associated with meeting higher nutritional, medical, and staffing requirements. Facility administrators may also face increased logistical challenges in managing inmate housing and transportation to ensure compliance with the new safety and accessibility mandates.
Get Notified
Receive an email when this bill's status changes.