Bill > A07273

This bill establishes a comprehensive public awareness campaign and funding mechanism to address maternal depression in New York State. The legislation creates a new maternal depression awareness program within the state health department, aimed at educating both the public and healthcare providers about the risks and potential treatments for maternal depression, a serious mental health condition that can affect women during pregnancy and after childbirth. A dedicated "maternal depression fund" will be established, which can receive appropriations, grants, and contributions from various sources, with an initial appropriation of $20 million from the state treasury. The fund will be jointly managed by the state comptroller and commissioner of taxation and finance, and the moneys will be specifically allocated to the department of health to implement the awareness and education programs. The bill emphasizes a multi-faceted approach to addressing maternal depression by focusing on public education, healthcare provider training, and creating a sustainable funding mechanism to support ongoing efforts to recognize, understand, and treat this important health issue.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7273