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SB 206

Pregnant Women in Custody

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shev Jones and 1 co-sponsor

Bill establishing medical care and restraint standards for pregnant women in Florida custody, addressing labor protocols and postpartum support—died in committee without passage.

Died in Criminal Justice
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Bill Summary · SB 206

Legislative bill overview

SB 206 establishes protocols and standards for the treatment of pregnant women in Florida's custody and correctional facilities. The bill addresses medical care, restraint policies, housing conditions, and postpartum support for incarcerated pregnant individuals. It seeks to align state practices with constitutional standards and public health recommendations for this vulnerable population.

Why is this important

Pregnant individuals in custody face significant health risks without adequate protections, including increased rates of miscarriage, premature birth, and maternal complications. These standards directly affect maternal and infant health outcomes, and establishing clear guidelines reduces liability exposure for facilities while protecting constitutional rights. The issue affects hundreds of women in Florida's system annually.

Potential points of contention

  • Restraint restrictions: Limitations on shackling during labor and medical procedures may conflict with security concerns some correctional officials cite, though medical evidence strongly supports restraint restrictions
  • Cost and facility modifications: Enhanced medical care, separate housing, and postpartum accommodations require budget allocation that may compete with other criminal justice priorities
  • Scope of protections: Disagreement likely exists over how far protections extend (e.g., duration of postpartum support, visitation rights with infants, timing of separation from newborns)

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

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