The fight for increased access to reproductive healthcare has grown for the general population. However, one demographic is left behind: those experiencing incarceration.

Those who are incarcerated are legally entitled to health care. Yet a lack of oversight and enforcement leaves them without adequate access to prenatal care, STD testing and treatment, and trauma-informed care. This results in disproportionately negative mental and physical health outcomes for women who are incarcerated.

Senate Bill S7108 was introduced in 2019 and has yet to be passed. This bill ensures thorough and sensitive gynecological care for incarcerated women in New York by amending existing public health law to:

• Mandate that STD testing be offered
• Guarantee better care for pregnant women (access to prenatal vitamins, specialized diet, etc.)
• Train health professionals in trauma-informed reproductive health care
• Require data collection and a published report of women's health care 

Current policy falls short in addressing the needs of incarcerated women. The lack of documentation and monitoring allows for substandard levels of care to persist. The experience of incarceration is inherently traumatic, which is compounded by inadequate and negligent care. Reproductive health care has a direct link to mental health outcomes, and it is crucial that we mitigate the high rates of medical trauma. We must hold the state accountable for its treatment of incarcerated women and its obligation to preserve their human rights.

What you can do to help:

1. Sign our change.org petition - Help us bring awareness and urgency to this bill
2. Contact your local legislators - Reach out to your state senators and assembly members to express your support for Senate Bill S7108.
3. Join Advocacy Efforts - Participate in campaigns and rallies that raise awareness for this bill and its vital goals.
4. Encourage Public Dialogue - Start conversations in your community about the need for adequate healthcare for incarcerated women and why this bill matters.