Stop Shackling and Detaining Pregnant Women Act

Key Points

• Would generally stop Homeland Security from detaining people who are pregnant, lactating, or up to 1 year after giving birth, while their immigration case is pending.
• Requires release of anyone already detained who is found to be pregnant, with narrow exceptions for serious safety or escape risks that can’t be handled another way.
• Bans the use of restraints like handcuffs and shackles on pregnant or postpartum people in custody, including during labor and delivery, with very limited exceptions and strict limits.
• Sets privacy and dignity rules for medical care, like keeping nonmedical staff out of exams and childbirth unless medical staff specifically request help.
• Requires rights notices, staff training, and regular public reporting on how often pregnant people are detained and whether restraints were used.