North Dakota DOC Introduce Bill To Allow Mothers And Children To Live Together In Prison

BISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR) — The bill, presented by the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, would allow children from newborns to 18 months of age to reside with their mothers in a separate housing unit the DOC considers their ‘apartments.’

“Women are often the main caregivers for their children as most incarcerated women are parents to children under the age of eighteen. From 1991 to 2016, there was a ninety-six percent increase in incarcerated mothers. There’s significant research that supports a mother and their baby’s bond starting during gestation,” said Cheryl Thomas, Women’s Services Manager of Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Currently, eleven states including South Dakota, have installed nurseries inside their prison facilities. The bill would allow the Heart River Correctional Center in Mandan to allow mothers to apply to be a part of this program.

“Incarcerated mothers often face overwhelming challenges related to separation from their children which can intensify feelings of hopelessness and depression. Allowing mothers to bond with their infants in a supportive environment gives them the sense of purpose and responsibility which can help reduce recidivism rates,” said Thomas.

The biggest concern for legislators and the opposing side was the liability part of the bill. With concerns being raised for the safety of the children and who can be accepted into this program.

“Everything is taken into consideration when we are looking at this because obviously, safety of the child is one of our main priorities if this is something that we are able to move forward with because the goal of this is to really strengthen the bond between mom and child. So they can be a better neighbor to all of us when they return to the community,” said Thomas.

While the facility does not have the space for children to reside currently, they are working to have an expansion done by the fall of 2027.