ST. LOUIS Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe signed historic legislation today that included three major provisions championed by Missouri Appleseed and Keyway Center for Diversion and Reentry. The signing of this legislation marks a significant step toward strengthening Missouri families and supporting justice-impacted individuals.
Key provisions of the new law include:
o Repeal of Missouri Incarceration Reimbursement Act – removing barriers for individuals preparing for release by ending the state of Missouri’s ability to arbitrarily seize the assets of individuals returning home.
o Improved Prenatal and Postnatal Care for Incarcerated Pregnant Women – ensuring better medical care and nutrition for expectant mothers including a ban on shackling women during their third trimester, during labor, and 48 hours postpartum.
o Fair Communication Costs for Justice-Impacted Families – capping phone rates in correctional facilities so that families can stay connected without financial hardship due to exploitive phone rates.
“The passing of these provisions is a major victory for families and communities across Missouri,” said Liza Weiss, Executive Director of Missouri Appleseed. “We are grateful for the tireless efforts of advocates, legislators, community partners, and supporters who made this possible. Together, we are creating a healthier, stronger, and safer Missouri.”
“We see firsthand how policies like these shape the futures of the women we serve,” shares Keyway Executive Director, April Foster. “Access to quality prenatal care, fair commutation costs, and the removal of financial burdens upon release will allow our participants to build stability, reunite with their families, and move forward with dignity. This is a major step toward real justice reform in Missouri.”
While H.B. 495 was sponsored by Representative Brad Christ (R) and Senator Nick Schroer (R), the below legislators initially sponsored bills with language that was amended onto H.B. 495.
Missouri Incarceration Reimbursement Act:
Improved Prenatal and Postnatal Care for Incarcerated Pregnant Women:
Fair Communication Costs for Justice-Impacted Families: