Bill seeks rules for restraining pregnant inmates

(AP) - An assemblyman says it's time for Nevada to establish that pregnant inmates should not be shackled from the time pregnancy is established through delivery and recovery.

Under AB408, the Department of Corrections would be barred from placing restraints such as belly chains and leg irons once it has been determined a female inmate is pregnant. Assemblyman Tick Segerblom of Las Vegas told the Assembly Judiciary Committee on Wednesday that the bill is a preventive measure, prompted by an article he had recently read about the impact such restraints may have on a fetus.

Critics worry the bill discounts the reality that pregnant inmates can still be violent. They would like latitude in terms of how they may restrain inmates.

No action was taken on the bill.