6 takeaways from new law covering pregnant inmates
![Minnesota Correction Facility in Shakopee](https://img.apmcdn.org/40217dc7abe1a5332c4f0d690a1bbf31524357c3/uncropped/236272-20140519-shakopee-prison1.jpg)
Like this?
Log in to share your opinion with MPR News and add it to your profile.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
A Minnesota law taking effect July 1 sets new requirements for state prisons relating to care of inmates during pregnancy and childbirth. It's the first Minnesota law to relate directly to pregnant women in correctional facilities.
6 takeaways from Jessica Anderson, director of legislative affairs and communications for the Children's Defense Fund of Minnesota:
The law restricts the use of restraints -- like handcuffs and waist chains -- from pregnancy through three days postpartum
Correctional facilities will be required to offer pregnancy and STD tests to inmates, rather than relying on inmates to make a request
Facilities will also be required to provide prenatal, childbirth and parenting materials to inmates
Inmates will have access to mental health assessments and treatment during pregnancy and postpartum
Inmates will be allowed access to a certified doula as long as there is no extra charge to the state
A new committee will meet in the fall to discuss possible future changes, such as allowing inmates to breastfeed their babies
The law, which received support from both progressive and conservative groups, passed the legislature unanimously in May.
Support the News you Need
Gifts from individuals keep MPR News accessible to all - free of paywalls and barriers.