Women in Criminal Justice Reform: Support, Care, and Reintegration
This Act aims to improve the treatment of women within the criminal justice system by reforming arrest procedures, bail, alternatives to incarceration, and post-release support. It focuses on the specific needs of women, including mothers, trauma survivors, and those with health issues, to reduce recidivism and protect children. Citizens can expect a more humane and personalized approach to legal interactions, especially for women and their families.
Key points
Child Protection at Arrest: Federal officers must allow arrested parents to arrange for child care before referral to welfare agencies, unless abuse is suspected.
Law Enforcement Training: Introduction of grants for officer training on the specific needs of women in contact with law enforcement, including trauma, domestic violence, and parental arrests.
Bail and Temporary Release Reform: Courts will consider the impact of detention on children when setting bail, and incarcerated individuals will have easier access to temporary release to maintain family and community ties.
Alternatives to Incarceration: Expansion of pretrial diversion programs offering support for employment, housing, education, and treatment instead of imprisonment, especially for individuals with a history of trauma.
Drug Conspiracy Sentencing Changes: Penalties for drug conspiracies will be limited so they do not exceed the penalty for the underlying offense, preventing excessive sentences for less culpable individuals.
Healthcare in Prisons: Provision of healthcare for incarcerated women, including gynecological, dental, chronic disease screenings, and access to contraception.
Trauma-Informed Care: Implementation of training for prison staff, screening programs, and therapy for individuals with a history of trauma, particularly for women.
Prison Conditions: Ensuring dignified and humane conditions in women's prisons, including adequate housing, hygiene, nutrition, and access to rehabilitation programs.
Mother and Infant Programs: Expanding access to programs that allow mothers to maintain ties with their children, including residential parenting programs.
Reentry Reform: Focusing on the needs of women in reentry centers, providing appropriate care and support for their reintegration into society, considering their roles as parents.
Expired
Citizen Poll