# Stop Shackling and Detaining Pregnant Women Act

This bill prevents law enforcement and correctional facilities from using physical restraints like handcuffs, shackles, and chains on pregnant women during labor, delivery, and recovery. It also limits how long pregnant women can be held in custody before receiving medical care and sets standards for how they should be treated while incarcerated.

The law applies to federal, state, and local police, as well as jails and prisons. If a pregnant woman is arrested or detained, officers cannot restrain her during active labor or delivery, and they must allow her immediate access to medical care. The bill also requires that pregnant inmates receive appropriate prenatal care, nutrition, and accommodations—like access to bathrooms and comfortable sleeping areas—rather than being treated the same as other prisoners.

The practical impact is significant for pregnant women in the criminal justice system. Instead of being shackled during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives, they'll receive medical treatment and dignity. This protects both the mother's health and the developing baby. For correctional facilities, it means establishing new policies and training staff on how to safely manage pregnant inmates without using restraints. The bill recognizes that pregnancy is a medical condition requiring special consideration, not a security threat.