Press Releases
05/02/2018
Gov. Malloy Applauds Final Passage of Legislation on Fair Treatment of Incarcerated Women
Bill Addresses Unique Challenges Facing Women in the Criminal Justice System
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy is commending the Connecticut House of Representatives for the bipartisan, 148-0 vote this afternoon to adopt legislation he introduced that will strengthen Connecticut’s efforts to bring fairness and dignity to incarcerated women, and thereby reduce recidivism. The legislation, which was adopted in the Senate on Tuesday, next moves to the Governor’s desk for his signature.
“Women in the criminal justice system face unique challenges and barriers to success,” Governor Malloy said. “The legislation approved in the House today is about taking a compassionate yet practical approach to improving the way our institutions treat incarcerated women. Of the many things that I have accomplished in public life, this is among those of which I am most proud. I look forward to signing this bill into law, and forging ahead in our mission to reimagine our system of justice for the benefit of all.”
The legislation, Senate Bill 13 – An Act Concerning Fair Treatment of Incarcerated Women, will:
- Prohibit shackling of pregnant inmates during labor;
- Require the DOC to provide female inmates with feminine hygiene products at no cost;
- Require DOC to establish child friendly visitation policies;
- Prohibit non-medical staff of the opposite gender from viewing or interfering with incarcerated women engaged in personal activities such as undressing, using toilet facilities, or showering;
- Require DOC to establish and provide parenting support as well as pre-natal and post-partum services and supports;
- Require DOC, the Board of Pardons and Paroles, and the Court Support Services Division of the judicial branch to utilize a gender responsible approach to risk assessment strategies that recognizes the unique risks and needs of female offenders;
- Enhance requirements for gender-specific and trauma-related trainings for correctional staff; and
- Establish standards of treatment for inmates who have a gender identity that differs from their assigned sex at birth.
The Governor plans to sign the bill into law in the coming days.
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