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SB 623

CONCERNING THE TREATMENT OF FEMALE INMATES AND DETAINEES IN CORRECTIONAL OR DETENTION FACILITIES; AND TO AMEND THE LAW REGARDING THE TREATMENT OF AN INMATE OR DETAINEE WHO IS PREGNANT OR HAS RECENTLY DELIVERED A CHILD.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ashley Hudson and 1 co-sponsor

SB 623 mandates better care for pregnant inmates, ensuring proper nutrition, hygiene, and safety, while promoting health and well-being for mothers and their children in custody.

Sine Die adjournment
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Bill Summary · SB 623

Summary of Senate Bill 623

Bill Number: SB 623
Title: Concerning the Treatment of Female Inmates and Detainees in Correctional or Detention Facilities; and to Amend the Law Regarding the Treatment of an Inmate or Detainee Who is Pregnant or Has Recently Delivered a Child.
Status: Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: April 03, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 623 aims to improve the treatment and care of female inmates and detainees in correctional facilities, particularly focusing on those who are pregnant or have recently given birth. The bill seeks to establish clear standards for the provision of necessary health and hygiene products, as well as to ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable populations during their incarceration.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant amendments to existing Arkansas law:

  1. Prenatal Care and Nutrition:

    • Correctional facilities must provide:
      • Necessary prenatal vitamins and nutrition, ensuring a minimum of 2,500 calories per day.
      • Adequate hygiene products and undergarments for female inmates.
      • A lower bunk for pregnant inmates or detainees.
      • Access to educational programming related to prenatal care, hygiene, and parenting, as well as substance abuse treatment.

  2. Medical Examination Protocols:

    • A female medical provider or female staff member must be present during medical examinations of pregnant inmates or detainees.

  3. Placement in Restrictive Housing:

    • Pregnant inmates or those who have delivered within the last 30 days cannot be placed in restrictive housing unless they pose a direct threat to safety or the facility's operations.

  4. Transportation Safety:

    • Pregnant inmates or detainees must be transported in vehicles equipped with seatbelts to ensure their safety during transit.

Impact

The provisions of SB 623 are designed to enhance the health and safety of female inmates and detainees, particularly those who are pregnant or postpartum. By mandating specific care standards, the bill aims to reduce health risks associated with pregnancy in correctional settings and promote better outcomes for both mothers and their children.

Affected Parties

  • Female Inmates and Detainees: The primary beneficiaries of the bill, particularly those who are pregnant or have recently given birth.
  • Correctional Facilities: Facilities will need to implement new policies and procedures to comply with the requirements set forth in the bill.
  • Healthcare Providers: Female medical staff and providers within correctional facilities will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the bill's provisions.

Procedural Timeline

  • April 03, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • April 08, 2025: Bill placed on second reading for amendment; Amendment #1 adopted.
  • April 09, 2025: Recommended for study in the Interim Committee on Judiciary Committee - Senate.
  • May 05, 2025: Sine Die adjournment, concluding the legislative session without further action on the bill.

In summary, SB 623 represents a significant step towards improving the treatment of female inmates and detainees, particularly in relation to pregnancy and postpartum care, by establishing clear standards and protections within correctional facilities in Arkansas.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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