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Committee hears bipartisan support to restrict shackling of pregnant inmates; executive action stalls and bill is tabled
Summary
Representative James Reavis introduced HB 475 to bar routine shackling of pregnant detainees during labor and delivery except in narrow safety cases; medical groups, the ACLU and OB‑GYNs urged passage, citing health and constitutional concerns. During executive action the committee was split and ultimately tabled the bill.
Representative James Reavis presented House Bill 475 to the Senate Judiciary Committee as a narrow statute restricting the use of restraints on pregnant inmates while they are in labor and delivery. Reavis said the bill follows model language used in other states and contains exceptions for established flight risk or clear threat to safety.
Proponents included medical and civil‑liberty groups, physicians and representatives of health organizations. Henry Seaton of the ACLU of Montana urged support, citing constitutional and ethical concerns and national medical guidance that…
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