Albany, NY – This week, the New York Senate and Assembly both passed the Anti-Shackling Bill, sponsored by State Senator Julia Salazar. 

The Anti-Shackling Bill would prohibit the dangerous and degrading use of restraints on pregnant and postpartum individuals in law enforcement custody in all but the most extenuating circumstances. And, it would ensure that no one in active labor is subjected to restraints. 

State Senator Julia Salazar released the following statement: 

“Just a couple of weeks ago, a woman was barbarically forced to give birth in a Brooklyn courtroom while 9 months pregnant and handcuffed behind her back. This horrific incident highlights how our criminal justice system frequently treats pregnant and postpartum New Yorkers, and their babies, with such inhumanity. The Anti-Shackling Bill will help ensure we treat all pregnant and postpartum New Yorkers with the dignity and care they deserve.” 

Helpful Examples: 

• Recently, a 33-year-old New Yorker who was nine months pregnant was forced to give birth in a court room in front of a judge and other spectators. She was handcuffed behind her back while in active delivery with no medical personnel in sight. She was there on low-level charges that were dismissed two days later.  

• In 2006, Rebecca Figueroa was handcuffed to the bed and restrained by a leg shackle while in active labor and while surrounded by guards. After delivery, Rebecca remained restrained to the bed.