JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Some Mississippi lawmakers and community advocates rallied at the State Capitol on Wednesday to support a bill that would protect those incarcerated in the state.

House Bill 658 addresses the need for safety, health protection and humane treatment for those behind bars, advocates said.

“We’re just asking that they be geared up for the job that they are expected to do in a healthy and a safe way,” said Pauline Rogers, founder of the RECH Foundation.

The bill was authored by State Rep. Justis Gibbs (D-District 72). He wants full bipartisan support for HB 658.

“We had a press conference at the federal courthouse, and I met so many individuals. Mr. Michael Stadum is here, and he’s had two brain surgeries due to being exposed to chemicals within the correctional system,” Gibbs said.

The bill calls for the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) to provide proper protective wear to all incarcerated persons who utilize raw chemicals.

“We applaud the corrections committee that unanimously voted in support of the bill. And we urge the full House to pass it as soon as possible,” said Latasha Palmer, with the Mississippi Workers’ Center for Human Rights.

The bill will head to the House floor for a vote.