HI HB131

Prohibits use of restraints on incarcerated pregnant females during the third trimester of pregnancy and postpartum recovery, except in extraordinary circumstances.

Absolutely prohibits all restraints during labor and childbirth, but allows hospital-requested restraints for medical safety if requested by treating physicians.

Specifies that leg irons and waist chains are never permitted on pregnant females, and any restraints used must be the least restrictive and most reasonable available.

Requires correctional personnel to be absent from the delivery room unless requested by medical staff, and mandates that any present personnel be female if practicable.

Mandates that medical professionals can request immediate removal of restraints, and requires written documentation of extraordinary circumstances if restraints are used, including specific facts, type of restraints, and justification.

Requires the department director to provide training to all relevant staff and notify pregnant female offenders of these requirements upon custody assumption and through conspicuous facility postings.