HB36 Summary

• Prohibits restraints and solitary confinement on pregnant detainees from the moment law enforcement becomes aware of pregnancy through the 12-week postpartum recovery period.

• Permits restraints only in two exceptions: when the detainee poses an immediate credible flight risk or immediate serious threat of harm that cannot be prevented by other means, and only using the least restrictive methods (excluding ankle/leg/waist restraints, hands behind back, four-point restraints, or solitary confinement).

• Requires corrections officers to submit written reports within 30 days of using restraints on pregnant detainees, including facts, reasoning, details of restraint use, and observed physical effects.

• Mandates the Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner to develop consistent training guidelines for all law enforcement agencies on restraint use during pregnancy and postpartum recovery, incorporating professional standards from medical organizations.

• Applies to the Alabama Department of Corrections, county sheriffs' offices, municipal law enforcement, and constables, with annual compliance reports to the legislature.