An Alabama state representative has proposed a bill that would allow pregnant women to remain outside of jail or prison until they give birth.
Democratic State Rep. Rolanda Hollis' bill would allow a woman who is pregnant to remain out of prison for three months after giving birth to provide postpartum care to the child.
Also, the bill would have women tested to see if they were pregnant upon being arrested. If pregnant, they would be released on bail during the pregnancy. The bill does state that such a release would only happen if the court determined the woman "did not pose a threat to herself or others."
RestoreHER, an organization "dedicated to the safety and dignity of system-impacted women" has supported similar legislation around the country.
The organization's website states that such bills are "aimed at family unification, safety, and providing dignity to babies and their mothers in states across the nation" and that such legislation "has the capacity to limit childhood trauma and behavioral problems."
The pre-incarceration term of the probation would be credited to the woman's sentence. Following the 12-week period, the woman would be required to self-surrender to authorities. If she did not, she would be guilty of a class A misdemeanor and subject to fines.
