HB5538 Summary

• Prohibits Department of Corrections and Department of Juvenile Justice from using security restraints on pregnant or postpartum committed persons unless corrections official determines the person presents substantial flight risk or extraordinary circumstance requiring restraints for safety.

• Bans leg irons, shackles, and waist shackles on pregnant or postpartum committed persons regardless of security classification.

• Requires restraints used on pregnant or postpartum persons be least restrictive possible, and mandates immediate removal upon written or oral request by medical personnel.

• Upon discharge from medical facility, postpartum committed persons may only be restrained with handcuffs in front of body during transport.

• Requires Department to provide annual report to General Assembly documenting every instance of restraint use on pregnant or postpartum persons, including time, date, location, officials involved, and rationale; and mandates training for all security staff on treatment and transportation of pregnant committed persons.