Bill > LD1006

This bill allows healthcare providers to perform blood tests on pregnant persons both before and after childbirth, but only with the person's explicit consent. The purpose of these tests is to detect the presence of drugs or medications. Before and during childbirth, healthcare providers can test the pregnant person to determine what drugs might be present prior to administering any new medications. During this process, the provider must keep a detailed record of all medications administered during childbirth. After the birth, the healthcare provider may also conduct a blood test on the person who has given birth to determine the presence of drugs or medications. Importantly, before any report of drug use can be made, all blood test results must be carefully reconciled. If a drug use report is ultimately filed, it must include all relevant medication records and the complete results of all blood tests conducted. The bill defines a "healthcare provider" using an existing legal definition from another section of Maine state law. This legislation appears designed to provide a structured, consensual approach to monitoring potential drug use during pregnancy and childbirth while maintaining patient privacy and consent.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1006&snum=132