Summary of Bill S 2666

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 2666

Title: Relates to the provision of breast pumps to certain incarcerated birth parents and allowing children to remain with their incarcerated birth parent for a period of time

Status: Referred to Correction

Introduced: January 22, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 2666 is to enhance the rights and welfare of incarcerated birth parents, particularly focusing on those who are nursing. The bill aims to ensure that these individuals have access to necessary resources, such as breast pumps, and to facilitate the bonding process between incarcerated parents and their children.

Key Provisions

• Provision of Breast Pumps: The bill mandates that certain incarcerated birth parents be provided with breast pumps to support breastfeeding while they are in custody. This provision is intended to promote the health and well-being of both the parent and the child.

• Child Custody Arrangements: The bill allows for children to remain with their incarcerated birth parent for a specified period. This provision is designed to foster parent-child relationships during the early stages of a child's life, which is crucial for emotional and psychological development.

Affected Parties

• Incarcerated Birth Parents: The bill directly impacts incarcerated individuals who are new parents, particularly those who are nursing. It recognizes their unique needs and aims to provide them with essential resources.

• Children of Incarcerated Parents: The legislation also affects the children of these parents, as it seeks to maintain their connection with their parent during incarceration, which can have long-term benefits for their emotional health.

Legislative Timeline

• January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction.
• February 25, 2025: First report calendar.
• February 26, 2025: Second report calendar.
• March 3, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
• May 5, 2025: Amended on third reading (version 2666A).
• June 11, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly, where it was referred to the Correction Committee.

Related Legislation

• A 4610 (prior-session): A related bill from a previous session that may have addressed similar issues.
• S 9817 (prior-session): Another related bill from a previous session.
• A 1607 (companion): A companion bill that may provide additional context or provisions related to the issues addressed in S 2666.

Conclusion

Bill S 2666 represents a significant step towards addressing the needs of incarcerated birth parents and their children. By providing essential resources like breast pumps and allowing for child-parent bonding, the bill aims to improve the overall well-being of families affected by incarceration. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and implementation of these provisions.