Bill > A01025

This bill modifies existing public health law to enhance maternal depression screening guidance by requiring the commissioner of health to consult with additional agencies and stakeholders. Specifically, the bill adds the Office of Addiction Services and Supports to the consultation process, alongside the existing Office of Mental Health, when developing guidance for incorporating maternal depression screenings into routine prenatal care. The guidance will continue to include recommendations on screening timing, identifying social needs that may contribute to depression (such as social support, intimate partner violence, and housing insecurity), substance use disorder screening, treatment referrals, and reimbursement strategies. The bill also requires the identification and publication of training and information resources for healthcare providers on topics like health equity, implicit bias, screening options, patient rights, and trauma-informed care. Additionally, the bill changes the effective date of the original legislation from 180 days to eighteen months after becoming law, which provides more time for healthcare providers and systems to prepare for implementation. The overall goal is to improve maternal mental health screening and support during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1025