Bill > HB2529

This bill makes several changes regarding the treatment and care of prisoners in Arizona. It clarifies that pregnant inmates are exempt from paying medical and health service fees, and that feminine hygiene products must be provided to them free of charge and meet industry standards. The bill also establishes procedures for when a prisoner refuses non-life-threatening medical treatment, requiring healthcare staff to explain the consequences, document the refusal with the prisoner's signature (or witness signatures if the prisoner refuses), and continue to provide care for future medical needs. Additionally, it strengthens protections for pregnant prisoners by prohibiting the use of restraints during pregnancy and for thirty days after childbirth unless there's an extraordinary circumstance, and it prevents correctional facilities from compelling or coercing pregnant prisoners to electively induce labor. The bill also mandates that pregnant prisoners receive adequate food and dietary supplements according to established prenatal guidelines, and that correctional institutions provide necessary hygiene and nutritional products for the first seventy-two hours after birth without cost. Finally, it requires correctional institutions to provide specific training to staff on the health needs of pregnant prisoners and their fetuses, and to offer educational programming to pregnant prisoners on prenatal care, birthing options, and parenting.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/84313