The General Assembly hereby finds that restraining a pregnant woman can pose undue health risks to the woman and her unborn fetus. Freedom from physical restraints is especially critical during labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery after delivery. Women often need to move around during labor and recovery, including moving their legs as part of the birthing process. Restraints on a pregnant woman can interfere with the medical staff’s ability to appropriately assist in childbirth or to conduct sudden emergency procedures. Shackling is unnecessary and dangerous to a woman’s well-being.
78 Del. Laws, c. 330, § 1; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1.