
The Board of Corrections in Virginia has approved new regulations that would allow pregnant prisoners to just be handcuffed in front when being transported outside the jail, unless they pose a danger or flight risk.
Waist chains would be prohibited, and the use of restraints during childbirth also would be severely restricted.
Inmate advocates and law enforcement officials worked with board members for months to draft language acceptable to both sides. Legislation to restrict shackling of pregnant inmates died in the 2012 General Assembly, where a subcommittee decided to let the corrections board handle the issue.
The board is expected to take a final vote in November.

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