A bipartisan bill in Utah aims to improve the tracking of pregnant inmates and potentially divert some parents from incarceration through a new program.
A bill aimed at improving the tracking of pregnant inmates in Utah has garnered unexpected bipartisan support during the state's busy legislative session. Sponsored by Republican Representative Candice Pierucci of Herriman, the bill mandates the Utah Department of Corrections and county jails to offer pregnancy tests to inmates and gather parental information.
Pierucci envisions this as a stepping stone toward establishing a diversion program that could keep some parents out of state prisons and jails. The legislation also establishes the Correctional Postnatal and Early Childhood Advisory Board to address the needs of incarcerated parents and their children. This board includes representatives from various organizations, such as the Department of Corrections, Board of Pardons and Parole, and pediatric healthcare providers. The bill's provision requiring pregnancy tests for inmates is particularly crucial, according to Pierucci. She explained that some scanners used in correctional facilities, especially in lockdown units, emit radiation levels higher than airport scanners, which can be harmful to developing fetuses. While the law mandates offering pregnancy tests, it does not compel inmates to take them
Utah Lawmakers Pregnant Inmates Diversion Program Correctional Facilities Bipartisan Support Health Child Welfare
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