Federal bill would ban restraints on pregnant women in U.S. custody

What does this do?

HR 8690 establishes standards for the treatment of pregnant women held in federal prisons, immigration detention, Border Patrol custody, and refugee shelters. It bans physical restraints and solitary confinement from the time pregnancy is confirmed through at least 12 weeks postpartum, with narrow exceptions requiring daily written review. Facilities must provide prenatal care, nutrition including prenatal vitamins, mental health screenings, parenting rights education, pregnancy testing at intake, and at least 60 minutes of newborn bonding time.

Who does it affect?

The bill applies to pregnant women in any form of federal custody, including Bureau of Prisons facilities, ICE detention, CBP holding areas, and Office of Refugee Resettlement shelters. Women who believe their rights were violated may sue the responsible federal agency in court for money damages or other relief.

Why does it matter?

Facilities would be required to train staff on these rules within 180 days and then twice yearly, and the government would be required to collect and publish detailed data on pregnant women in federal custody nationwide. Women in their third trimester cannot be placed in solitary confinement under any circumstances, and high-risk patients may be transferred to halfway houses closer to their families.

Where does it stand?