Bill

Bill > S3278


NJ S3278

Requires DOC to provide prenatal and post-partum education and services for certain inmates.


summary

Introduced
12/10/2018
In Committee
11/18/2019
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/08/2020

Introduced Session

2018-2019 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires the Commissioner of Corrections to provide appropriate prenatal and post-partum services to expectant mothers. Nationwide women represent a small minority of the correction population; however, at any given time, approximately six to 10 percent of incarcerated women are pregnant (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2011). Many women first learn of their pregnancy upon entry to a correctional facility. At the time of their arrest and incarceration, many of these expectant mothers lack prenatal care and need considerable support to improve the clinical outcomes of their pregnancy. Incarcerated women tend to have complicated and high-risk pregnancies due to increased rates of substance use disorders and psychological distress. This bill provides that incarcerated expectant mothers are required to receive prenatal education; prenatal medical evaluation and care; nutritional counseling and supplements; counseling regarding family planning, birth control, test results, termination of pregnancy, child placement services, and religious counseling, if desired; and post-partum education and care.

AI Summary

This bill requires the New Jersey Department of Corrections (DOC) to provide comprehensive prenatal and post-partum services, including education, medical care, counseling, and other support to expectant mothers who are incarcerated. The bill recognizes that a significant percentage of women in correctional facilities are pregnant and may lack access to proper prenatal care prior to their incarceration. The proposed services aim to improve health outcomes for both the mother and child during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period for this vulnerable population.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance, Justice

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee (on 11/18/2019)

bill text


bill summary

Loading...

bill summary

Loading...
Loading...