(WTVF/CNN) - Some inmates in Tennessee can now reduce their sentences if they agree to have a birth control procedure.
The controversial measure was signed by a judge in May.
Inmates in White County can get a 30-day credit if they have a free vasectomy or receive a nexalom implant for female convicts. That arm implant helps women prevent pregnancies for up to four years.
The judge says his goal is to help repeated offenders get back on their feet after prison.
"So I hope to encourage them to at some point finally take personal responsibility and give them a chance, when they do get out, not to be burdened again with additional with children," said Judge Sam Benningfield.
So far, dozens of prisoners have agreed to take up the offer.
The ACLU slammed the program as unconstitutional, calling it a "coerced" contraception or sterilization.
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