American Medical Association Opposes Shackling Inmates during Childbirth

In its annual meeting this week, the American Medical Association adopted a resolution opposing shackling of pregnant inmates during childbirth.  Delegates to the meeting agreed that shackling mothers during labor is barbaric and can be dangerous.  The resolution also requires the AMA to craft model state legislation that would ban this practice.  Right now, only seven states have laws protecting mothers behind bars from shackling during labor.

Erin Tracy, who is an OB/GYN doctor and was a delegate this past week, insisted that shackling is “dehumanizing.”  Instead, mothers in labor “need to be provided adequate compassionate care.” 

 

To read the American Medical Association’s full resolution, click here.

 

To visit Justice Fellowship’s Shackling Inmates during Childbirth issue page click here.