Bill > HB07102

This bill proposes two key initiatives to improve maternal and infant health care in the state. First, it mandates the Commissioner of Health Strategy to develop a strategic plan by January 1, 2027, aimed at increasing the number of birth centers and birthing hospitals in underserved areas with high Medicaid populations. The plan will identify barriers to establishing such facilities, explore potential state incentives, and evaluate nationwide best practices for creating and sustaining these healthcare centers. Second, the bill expands the role of the Comprehensive Fatherhood Initiative (CFI) Council by explicitly adding the goal of expanding fathers' involvement in supporting maternal health. This involves modifying existing statutes to include fathers' participation in maternal health support and allowing the Commissioner of Social Services to award grants to programs that promote responsible parenting, enhance fathers' roles in maternal health, and provide services like employment training, parenting classes, and financial literacy programs. The bill is effective from July 1, 2025, and requires annual reporting on the effectiveness of these initiatives to the state legislature's joint standing committees.

Health and Social Services

Human Services Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB07102&which_year=2025