Incarcerated Women
Our Policy Approach and Advocacy
At Lift Louisiana, we recognize the unique challenges faced by incarcerated women and the importance of fostering an environment that promotes their rehabilitation, empowerment, and successful reintegration into society. Our policy goals prioritize the well-being and rights of incarcerated women, promoting a holistic approach to address their specific needs. As legislation is passed and implemented, we work to ensure proper compliance.
What You Need to Know
82%
of women serving state sentences in Louisiana are in their child-bearing years
(15-49)
2/3
of incarcerated women in Louisiana serve their sentence in local jails
60.9%
of women in Louisiana are incarcerated for non-violent crimes, including property damage and drug offenses
Policy Priorities
Gender-Informed and Trauma-Informed Approach
We advocate for correctional facilities to adopt gender-informed and trauma-informed practices that recognize the distinct experiences and vulnerabilities of incarcerated women. This approach will ensure that women receive appropriate mental health support, counseling, and access to programs that address the underlying trauma they may have experienced.
Healthcare and Reproductive Rights
We support policies that ensure incarcerated women have access to comprehensive healthcare, including reproductive healthcare services. Upholding their reproductive rights and offering adequate healthcare will contribute to their physical and mental well-being.
Alternatives to Incarceration
We advocate for the exploration and implementation of alternatives to incarceration, especially for pregnant and parenting individuals. Diversion programs, community-based corrections, and restorative justice practices can help address the root causes of criminal behavior while allowing women to remain connected to their families and communities.
Reentry Support
We emphasize the need for comprehensive reentry support for incarcerated women upon their release. This includes access to housing, employment opportunities, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and other resources necessary to foster successful reintegration into society.
Addressing Parenting Needs
We believe in adopting policies that consider the parenting needs of incarcerated women. When appropriate and in the best interest of the child, alternatives to maternal incarceration should be explored, such as community-based programs that allow mothers to maintain relationships with their children while serving their sentences.
Data Collection and Accountability
We advocate for accurate and comprehensive data collection on the experiences of incarcerated women, including their access to programs, healthcare, and support services. This data will inform evidence-based policies and ensure accountability for the implementation of gender-responsive practices.
Legislative Victories
PASSED
Act No 392 (2018) Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act
The Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act introduced sensible reforms to improve the treatment of incarcerated women within the prison system, aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of incarceration on their health and overall well-being. Passed in 2018, the Act requires all correctional facilities to provide incarcerated women with specific healthcare products, including feminine hygiene products, at no cost in sufficient quantities and to document searches conducted by male staff of incarcerated women, when female staff are not available.
PASSED
Act No 140 (2020) Stop Solitary for Pregnant Women
In 2020, Lift Louisiana actively endorsed legislation that banned the use of solitary confinement for incarcerated individuals who are pregnant or have recently given birth. This landmark law signified the first revision to Louisiana's solitary confinement regulations in 150 years.
PASSED
House Concurrent Resolution 85 (2021)
In 2021, Lift Louisiana led a coalition advocating for the passage of House Concurrent Resolution 85. The resolution requested the Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI) study the current policies in Louisiana’s correctional facilities regarding pregnancy management and care and maternal health, including the implementation and enforcement of laws prohibiting the use of restraints and solitary confinement for pregnant people.
The Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI) created a taskforce to implement HCR 85. The taskforce included the National Birth Equity Collaborative, Lift Louisiana, the Justice and Accountability Center for Louisiana, Birthmark Doulas, and Loyola University New Orleans, College of Law, in addition to other stakeholders, including formerly incarcerated women. The report was drafted by Professor Andrea Armstrong, with the assistance of Kenly Flanigan, and presented to the Louisiana House Committee on Health and Welfare on May 31, 2023.
PASSED
House Concurrent Resolution 104 (2023)
Lift advocated for the passage of House Concurrent Resolution 104, which authorizes and directs the legislative auditor to conduct performance audits of Louisiana's state and local correctional facilities to monitor implementation and enforcement of existing laws regarding the care and treatement of incarcerated pregnant people.
Latest Updates
