Oppose Shackling of Incarcerated Women During Labor

Year: 2019

Resolution Number: 23

Action Taken: Approved as Amended

Status:

Author(s): Heaveen Ahdi, Nora Akcasu, Katanya Alaga, May Chammaa, Tabitha Moses, Lakshmi Nerusu, Jaya Parulekar, Brianna Sohl , and Sara Teising

Sponsor: Brent Oldham

On behalf of: Medical Student Section

Committee: A (Medical Care Delivery)

Resolved Section(s):
RESOLVED: That MSMS supports the least restrictive restraints necessary when a correctional facility, detention center, or jail has actual or constructive knowledge that an inmate is in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. MSMS opposes the use of restraints on an inmate who is in labor, delivering her baby, or recuperating from the immediate delivery unless there are compelling grounds to believe the inmate presents:1. An immediate and serious threat of harm to herself, staff or others; or2. A substantial flight risk and cannot be reasonably contained by other means.If an inmate who is in labor or who is delivering her baby is restrained, only the least restrictive restraints necessary to ensure safety and security shall be used.

Fiscal Note: $1,000 or more for costs related to the adoption of new or revised MSMS or AMA policy.

Resolution: View PDF for Oppose Shackling of Incarcerated Women During Labor

For More Information, Contact:

Stacey Hettiger , Director
Health Care Delivery
517-336-5732
shettiger@msms.org