Hudson urges passage of protections for pregnant people in court
Hudson says no one should choose between health and navigating the criminal legal system, and temporary postponement does not end accountability. She urges the state legislature and governor to pass the protections.
Resolution 498 calls on the state to pass legislation allowing court proceedings to be postponed at the request of individuals in the later stages of pregnancy.
No one should have to choose between protecting their health during pregnancy and navigating the demands of the criminal legal system.
A temporary postponement can provide the time needed for childbirth and recovery without ending a case or eliminating accountability.
No one should be shackled in labor.
No one should be forced into a courtroom days before giving birth, not for any charge, not for any reason.
We have an opportunity to close gaps in our laws and ensure that pregnant New Yorkers are treated with the care and respect their circumstances require.
I urge the state legislature to pass these protections and the governor to sign them into law because dignity does not end at the courthouse door.
Thank you.
Thank you so much, Councilmember Hudson.
I'll now jump right into questions.