However, Director Clarke and staff at the DOC took seriously the conversations sparked by the Committee debate over the bill. Supporters of the bill, which was introduced by Delegate Hope, put pressure on the DOC to change their policies in the absence of legislative action. Ankle Restraints or restraints that in any other way restrict the woman’s movement will not be used during transportation outside the prison, or during labor, delivery and post-partum recovery. Additional restraints can be applied if a determination is made that the inmate is a danger to herself or others, but should additional restraints be used, they must allow for the woman to walk around, stand up, and turn over. If additional restraints are applied, an incident report must be submitted that states the restraints used and the reason why in order to ensure compliance and accountability. Finally, all restraints must be immediately removed if medical staff so direct. Restraining a pregnant woman can pose undue health risks to the woman and her pregnancy. Unrestrained movement is especially critical during labor, delivery, and the postpartum recovery. Prisoners and detainees who are restrained face an increased potential for physical harm from an accidental trip or fall, which can be harmful to the health of the woman and her pregnancy. Consider the story of Tiarra Fain, a 22 year old political science major in college. She was handcuffed and shackled at the legs during transport to a doctor’s appointment. During delivery, the cord was wrapped around the baby’s neck almost necessitating an emergency c-section. It is a practice that not only violates a woman’s dignity, but can detrimentally affect her health and the health of her pregnancy. Virginia is now presented with an opportunity to become a national leader in supporting pregnant women who are incarcerated. Legislation will demonstrate the state’s commitment to this goal. Comments are rated by readers on a scale from 1 to 5. It's good news that the state DOC took this step to protect women's rights and health. State statutes give women more protection than internal department policies. Ankle Restraint