Anti-Shackling Laws

The number of states that have laws that prohibit shackling of pregnant people in custody is growing—in no small part due to advocacy led by previously incarcerated women. Some state laws prohibit shackling only in labor and delivery, others restrict shackling at all points in pregnancy and the postpartum period. But even with laws, we know this is not enough and that pregnant people are still shackled in labor. There is inconsistent oversight to ensure these laws have resulted in practice changes. Furthermore, many hospitals are not aware of the laws. Please use these resources to ensure that your hospital and your state’s jails and prisons are not breaking the law by shackling pregnant people in custody.