Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety Public Hearing on Thursday in Madison starting at 1:00 PM.

MADISON – Members of the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety are reviewing legislation to provide statutory guidelines on when and how correctional officers may shackle women in labor.

Senate Bill 393, authored by Senator Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee) and Representative Lisa Subeck (D-Madison), was introduced in August following a recent lawsuit alleging that at least 40 women in Milwaukee had been shackled while giving birth since 2011. The bill, in addition to shackling limitations, provides for maternal support services and expands STI testing in correctional facilities.

“I am excited that the committee will hear this important bill,” said Senator Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee). “Shackling women who are giving birth is cruel, dangerous, and rarely necessary. I am excited for the opportunity to share how this bill can help create better health outcomes while saving taxpayer dollars through reduced health care expenditures and lawsuit avoidance.”

The bill will be heard during the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety Public Hearing on Thursday starting at 1:00 PM.