Bill > SB5182

This bill amends existing law to update language and expand provisions related to midwifery and doula services for incarcerated individuals. The legislation replaces gendered terms like "woman" and "inmate" with more inclusive language such as "individual" and "incarcerated individual". It requires the Department of Corrections to make reasonable accommodations for midwifery and doula services for pregnant individuals or those who have recently given birth, including granting facility access to service providers and allowing them to assist during labor and childbirth when feasible. The bill clarifies that doula services can include support during labor, prenatal and postpartum education, breastfeeding assistance, and parenting education. While the bill does not mandate the department to establish or fund these services, it allows the department to create policy guidelines, contract with nonprofit organizations, or partner with volunteers to deliver midwifery and doula services. Importantly, these additional services are not intended to replace standard healthcare services already provided to incarcerated individuals. The changes aim to improve support and care for pregnant and postpartum individuals within the correctional system.