Bill > A06368

This bill establishes the Children and Recovering Mothers (CHARM) Act, which creates a comprehensive program to support expectant mothers with substance use disorder and their newborns. The bill requires the New York State Department of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Addiction Services and Supports, to develop several key initiatives: first, a guidance program for healthcare providers that includes universal screening techniques for substance use disorder during prenatal visits, using validated tools and stigma-reducing language; second, information and resources about medication-assisted treatment, including buprenorphine training and provider referrals; third, referral services for substance abuse counseling, social support, and home visiting services; and fourth, a system for consultation and referral for providers caring for expectant mothers with substance use disorder. Additionally, the bill mandates the development of guidance for hospitals and birth centers on neonatal abstinence syndrome, requires the creation of a continuing medical education course for healthcare providers treating mothers and newborns affected by substance use disorder, and establishes a stakeholder workgroup to study and evaluate challenges in identifying and treating expectant mothers, newborns, and new parents with substance use disorder. The workgroup is required to report its findings and recommendations within one year of the law's effective date, which will be ninety days after it becomes law.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6368